Arsenal legend Nigel Winterburn believes Riccardo Calafiori offers more in attack than in defence, but insisted the Italian remains a solid defender. Calafiori has been one of Arsenal’s standout performers this season with his adventurous displays at left-back and his knack for popping up in goalscoring positions. The left-back drew Arsenal level in their 2-1 comeback win against Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium last weekend.
He also was on target, netting the opener, as the reigning Premier League champions thrash Manchester City 3-0 in the FA Community Shield. Speaking about the Italy international, Winterburn admitted Calafiori’s attacking qualities outweigh his defensive ones. “I think he offers more going forward than defensively, if I’m honest, but he’s still a good defender,” Winterburn was quoted on Arsenal News Channel on X.
“Arteta called him a ‘free spirit’, didn’t he? I wish I’d been allowed to play like that when I was playing.” Winterburn added that Calafiori’s ability to drift into unexpected areas when Arsenal are in possession makes him a unique asset for Mikel Arteta’s side. “When Arsenal have the ball, Calafiori moves into positions you wouldn’t expect a left-back or right-back to occupy.
He’s quality on the ball and puts himself in goalscoring positions,” he continued. “He was playing like that at the start of last season, too, so it doesn’t surprise me that we’re talking about him again.” Calafiori is expected to be in action when Arsenal welcome French club Lille, in matchday 2 of the UEFA Champions League.