Riccardo Calafiori arrived at Arsenal from Bologna this summer (Picture: Getty Images)
William Gallas has compared new Arsenal signing Riccardo Calafiori to legendary defender Paolo Maldini, although admits it might partly be down to his hair.
The 22-year-old arrived in north London from Bologna this summer in a deal worth £42m, although he is yet to make his first start for the Gunners.
The Italian has come off the bench twice in the Premier League, but did start for his country over the international break in a 3-1 win over France.
The full-back went off injured, but Gallas liked what he saw from Calafiori, as he has done whenever he has seen him play.
The Frenchman has been so impressed that Maldini comes to mind when he watches the Arsenal man, although he has tried to temper excitement despite making that comparison.
‘I was watching the France vs Italy match and Calafiori stood out,’ Gallas told Prime Casino. ‘I thought he was really impressive before he was taken off with an injury. During the game, I’m texting my friend, Ousmane Dabo (former French international), and he played for Inter, Lazio, he spent most of his career in Serie A, so he knows the league and he knows Calafiori.
‘We’re talking about this player, and Ousmane tells me that he is the best defender in Italy and has been for a while. He said that he was outstanding last season, and I’m watching it, and I’m thinking this guy reminds me of Paulo Maldini.
Paolo Maldini of AC Milan reacts during the Serie A 2005, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)
‘Before Arsenal fans get too excited with the comparison, I’m talking about the way that Riccardo Calafiori moves, his style. I like his movement, how he reads the game. He’s got great awareness and ability for a 22-year-old.
‘Maybe it’s the long hair and the position he plays, because he can play as a left back that also makes me think of Maldini. Against France he played as the left centre back in a back three, but without the ball he moves into midfield. He’s very comfortable on the ball in those areas of the pitch; doesn’t panic.
‘Dabo said he was one of, if not the best defender in Italy last season. Every time I’ve seen him, I’ve been impressed.’
The severity of the injury Calafiori suffered against France is not yet clear. It is not thought to be serious but his availability for the north London derby on Sunday is yet to be confirmed.
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