BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy in motion in the course of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Picture by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Photographs)
Riccardo Calafiori believes Italy can’t afford to overlook one other World Cup as he continues to adapt to a brand new tactical function beneath Gennaro Gattuso forward of the qualifier towards Estonia.
Talking to Sky Sport, with quotes by way of TMW, the Arsenal defender mentioned how his place has advanced since becoming a member of the Azzurri setup, admitting he’s thriving in his present tasks. “In idea I’m a full-back,” he mentioned, “however proper now I’m actually having fun with myself. When I’ve freedom, with consciousness, I can provide my greatest and assist the crew.”
Calafiori praises Gattuso depth with Italy
Calafiori praised the depth of Gattuso’s coaching classes, revealing the brand new group is constructing a powerful id. “We’re working effectively, with nice depth, and I’ve to say I didn’t count on it,” he famous.
“Hopefully this can assist us quite a bit, as a result of at worldwide degree each crew is hard in that sense. In comparison with the match towards Israel, we have to recognise harmful conditions a bit extra – and that features me.”
Calafiori hopeful of World Cup qualification
Waiting for the remainder of Italy’s qualification marketing campaign, Calafiori underlined the significance of restoring nationwide pleasure. “As a result of we’re Italy,” he mentioned firmly.
“I simply can’t see Italy lacking a World Cup. It damage the final two instances we failed, and we’ll do the whole lot potential to ensure it doesn’t occur once more.”
The 23-year-old has shortly turn out to be one in every of Gattuso’s key gamers since breaking into the beginning XI, providing versatility each as a centre-back and in wider roles.
His performances for Arsenal this season have drawn reward throughout Europe, and his composure in possession has turn out to be an indicator of Italy’s evolving type beneath Gattuso.
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