Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori has revealed an sudden footballing idol – and it’s not who many would have guessed.
In a current unique interview with VERSUS, the Italy worldwide spoke candidly about every part from his position as an envoy for adidas’ underwear line, to who he thinks has the most effective hair at Arsenal (Noni Madueke, for the report).
However it was his footballing idol that actually caught consideration.
Whereas most would assume he appeared as much as legendary Italian defenders like Paolo Maldini or Alessandro Nesta, Calafiori revealed his inspiration got here from a extra shocking supply: Aleksandar Kolarov, the previous Manchester Metropolis and AS Roma full-back.
“After I was youthful at Roma, I used to be fortunate to coach with the primary staff,” Calafiori defined. “I obtained to study instantly from Aleksandar Kolarov, who performed my place. He was somebody I may watch every single day – his approach, his mentality – and he gave me recommendation and small particulars I nonetheless maintain with me right now.”
Though Kolarov was his foremost affect, Calafiori did point out the basic icons of Italian defending. “After all, defenders like Maldini, Nesta, Chiellini… these gamers are icons for me,” he added.
Elsewhere within the interview, the 23-year-old spoke about life at Arsenal since his £42m summer time transfer from Bologna final summer time.
“It’s particular,” he mentioned. “Everybody’s an excellent man, we’re mates, and I really feel actually comfy right here. Final season wasn’t straightforward, however I got here again this summer time with a hearth inside me. I couldn’t wait to begin once more. Taking part in within the Premier League is the dream for thus many gamers, so now I simply need to take pleasure in it and present what I can do constantly.”
Kolarov was a pillar of consistency at Manchester Metropolis, serving to the membership win two Premier League titles. Now, Calafiori will undoubtedly be hoping to copy his idol’s success at Arsenal.
