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Former Spurs striker thinks Riccardo Calafiori is a better defender than anyone at Tottenham

Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has hit the ground running after his move to England this summer. The Italian international joined from Bologna for a reported £42million fee.

Since he arrived he has already won goal of the month for his strike against Manchester City and has been praised for his solid defensive displays so far.

Calafiori has been a standout in one of the best defences in Europe so far this season. The Italian believes English football is less defensive than football in the Serie A.

“It’s very different, for instance, the intensity in training and during matches. Every game is hard-fought no matter the level of the opponents. Nobody focuses too much on defending, so it’s more entertaining to follow.”

“In Bologna it was the first year in which I felt important for a team and a city, I have wonderful memories and a beautiful relationship with everyone. I felt like going back and I liked it. The Premier is a very different championship compared to Serie A, it’s always good to learn to play with different rhythms and qualities,”

Darren Bent gives his verdict on Riccardo Calafiori

Former Spurs striker Darren Bent has weighed in on the performances of Arsenal’s new signing. Bent had  a successful Premier League career and scored 106 goals across multiple clubs.

The former striker was speaking on TalkSport about how good Calafiori has been this season:

“When he has played for Arsenal, he has been brilliant,” Bent said. “Defensively, in one-on-one battles, he’s been strong. He can play on the left side of center-half, at left-back, and he’s comfortable in possession. He was also good against PSG. He’s a monster.”

Arsenal are the joint-second best defence in the Premier League this season, having conceded just six goals. The Gunners could have had a much better defensive record, but they played two games with 10-men after controversial red cards.

Italian defender says he will get even better next year

Calafiori is happy with his start to life in England, but made a statement that he will improve over the next few months play for Arsenal.

“Things are going really well at Arsenal, and in six months it will be even better, people will see that,”

“My life has changed by being at Arsenal, I can feel a greater responsibility. And I like it. I love when people have high expectations of me.”

The defender featured in Italy’s 2-2 draw with Belgium in the Nations League on Thursday, and will be a part of the team to face Israel on Monday.