Riccardo Calafiori aspires to achieve a remarkable “double.”
Having recently clinched the Premier League title with Arsenal, the ex-Roma defender envisions lifting the Champions League trophy against Paris Saint-Germain in the final scheduled for Saturday the 30th at 6:00 PM.
Advertisement
In an interview with Il Corriere dello Sport, the defender, born in 2002, reflected on the Gunners’ victory: “Winning the Premier League was a dream come true. With how the season unfolded, it felt incredible. In some respects, clinching it this way made it even more special.”
“The highlight? When the final whistle blew in the Bournemouth-City match: we were all together, joking about it (laughs) and then we erupted with joy. It felt like a huge burden was lifted after twenty-two years without a title.”
Discussing Arteta’s influence and the forthcoming Champions League final, he said: “I hadn’t anticipated this at the start of the season, but once you get the hang of things, it all becomes simpler. I’ve been thinking a lot about the PSG match lately. My best friend and I often simulate it on PlayStation, and he’ll be coming to Budapest as well. His name is Nicolò Cesaroni, and I hope it will be thrilling. Right now, I’m trying to stay relaxed, but the real test will be boarding the plane. These opportunities are rare, so you have to seize them. We’re preparing for it like any other match; I can’t say if we’re aiming for something extraordinary. We’re not fearful; it’s a one-off game, and anything can happen. Plus, they won last year, so maybe their hunger is a bit less.”
Reflecting on the parallels between Roma and Arsenal, he stated: “I can’t say if Roma could become the new Arsenal, but I’m thrilled that they’re backing Gasperini. I always support them. I hope they can return to the heights I grew up watching. I’m proud of what Roma has accomplished. I’ve been in touch with Mancini, Cristante, and Pellegrini. Some of them even wished me a happy birthday, so we’ve all stayed connected. I’ve already told my friends: see you at the Olimpico in September. I’ve played there with Bologna, but hearing the roar of “The Champions League” after so many years of absence will be an unforgettable experience.
Advertisement
On the differences between the Premier League and Serie A, he remarked: “There is a noticeable gap. Upon my arrival, I was taken aback, thinking, ‘What have I gotten myself into? Will I ever play?’ The most significant difference lies in the weekly routine: with sixty games a year, training is more recovery-focused to ensure players are in top shape for matches. That’s the key difference in mentality.” He also commented on Gattuso’s decision to coach Lazio: “Naturally, I feel a bit let down about his choice of club (laughs).”
Lastly, on the recent struggles of Italian football, he shared: “It was a tough period to navigate. Playing regularly with Arsenal helped, but I doubt I’ll watch any matches; it would be too painful. The way it began gave me some hope, but then things took a turn for the worse… There’s not much to say; that was a crucial match we simply had to win. I hope that we can all learn and use this as a stepping stone to start fresh with renewed resolve. However, I can’t provide a detailed analysis: it’s the only match I’ve never been able to watch again.”