Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has admitted that he has 'unfinished business' at his boyhood club Roma and expressed a desire to return 'sooner or later'. The 24-year-old Italian came through the Roma academy but made only 18 appearances for the senior side before moving on to Genoa, Basel, and eventually Bologna.
Calafiori's impressive performances at Bologna caught the attention of Arsenal, who signed him for £42million in the summer of 2024. Since joining the Gunners, he has played a key role in helping the club secure their first Premier League title in 22 years, despite facing injuries and stiff competition for a starting spot under Mikel Arteta.
Winning the Premier League
Reflecting on winning his first league title, Calafiori told Italian publication Corriere della Sera: 'Yes, I've experienced firsthand what I'd imagined since I started playing. Given how the season went, and the way the triumph came about, it was all perfect.'
He also spoke about his decision to move to England two years ago, saying: 'I chose England because few Italians have managed to win here. I told myself, 'Come on, Riccardo, get out of your comfort zone.' It was a personal challenge for me. I can say I've made it.'
Unfinished Business at Roma
While Calafiori could add the Champions League trophy to his collection this weekend, he already has one eye on a return to Italy. 'I'm happy here now, but I've left some unfinished business with Roma,' he said. 'I barely played for that team when I was very young. I'd like to return. Not right away, but sooner or later.'
With Roma back in the Champions League for the first time since 2018, Calafiori is eager to face his former teammates. 'I told my friends right away, after Roma qualified for the Champions League: 'See you in September at the Olimpico',' he added. 'I spoke to Mancini, Cristante, and Lorenzo (Pellegrini). I congratulated them because they never gave up. There were ups and downs, but they deserved it. And I'm overjoyed; it's been a long time since we reached that milestone.'
