Reports suggest that Arsenal’s latest acquisition, Riccardo Calafiori, informed manager Mikel Arteta that he was all set with his bags packed and ready to join the team.
Calafiori’s transfer to the Gunners was officially announced on Monday.
The 22-year-old opted to make the move to Arsenal from Bologna in a €50 million deal, despite attracting interest from other European clubs.
Arteta recalled their conversations, saying: “During our discussions, with the knowledge of other clubs’ interest, there was some uncertainty on our end.”
He added, “However, Calafiori was resolute: ‘Inform me when the time is right; my bags are packed, and I am eager to become part of Arsenal’.”
Arteta highlighted, “His resolute commitment and eagerness to contribute and elevate the team are truly commendable qualities. As a club, we should take pride in securing a player with such determination.”