Calafiori’s response to Capello’s tactical tip for Italy
Riccardo Calafiori has responded to a tactical tip from Fabio Capello for the Italian national team as the former Milan boss argued the Arsenal defender should be tested in front of the defence, “like Marcel Desailly”.
Calafiori spoke to Sky Sport Italia last night following Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Bayern Munich at the Emirates Stadium.
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The Italian defender was introduced as a second-half substitute, but provided the assist for the Gunners’ second goal.
Calafiori assists for Arsenal’s second goal
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 13: Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal during the Premier League match between Arsenal and Nottingham Forest at Emirates Stadium on September 13, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
Capello had previously compared Calafiori to Sergio Ramos and insisted he saw a similarity between the two.
“Yes, the only thing is that Sergio Ramos played on the right, he had great quality, he pressed well and improved,” said the former Milan coach.
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Calafiori smiled and jokingly replied, “Yeah, that’s the only difference…”
Capello would test Calafiori in front of the defense
MADRID, SPAIN – APRIL 20: Fabio Capello attends the Mixed Sports Zone ahead of the Laureus World Sports Awards Madrid 2025 at Palacio De Cibeles on April 20, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images for Laureus)
Capello continued and gave tactical advice to Azzurri coach Gennaro Gattuso: “I would like to see him [Calafiori] in front of the defense with the national team. Like Desailly, but with more quality. I have this idea.
“I like to try everything, but be gentle with the comparisons,” replied the Arsenal defender, but Capello insisted: “If I tell you it’s because I see something…”
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Once again, Calafiori replied with a smile: “No, surely the gentleman knows something [about football]…”
Calafiori has three assists and one goal in 14 appearances in all competitions for Arsenal this season.
He made his senior debut for Italy in June 2024 under Luciano Spalletti and has 12 international appearances to his name.
