Oleksandr Zinchenko was superb for Arsenal, but was replaced by Calafiori in the second half who began the game as a left-back.
Then, once the impressive Myles Lewis-Skelly was handed further pre-season minutes, Calafiori shifted into a centre-back role – one that he currently seems better suited to.
The Italian showed impressive speed and composure in the middle, able to press high up and then recover his position quickly.
Of course, seeing Calafiori start well will only wetten the appetite for Arsenal to make further signings.
Although the former Bologna defender has joined, the Gunners have otherwise been quiet.
It’s reported that Arsenal are close to signing Mikel Merino – perhaps a deal that could be concluded next week.
But amid all the enjoyment attached to Calafiori’s debut, some comments that emerged from Arsenal’s sporting director Edu Gaspar now seem pretty significant.
Edu suggests that Arsenal will still be busy before end of August
Sky Sports reporter James Green was speaking outside the Emirates before today’s match kicked off and was providing an update on Arsenal’s transfer window.
And as well speaking about the likes of Eddie Nketiah leaving, a possibly even Merino arriving, the reporter shared what he had been told by fans on Arsenal’s US tour.
Mama Balde of Olympique Lyonnais is challenged by Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal during the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Olympique ...
Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images
Edu had been speaking to supporters during Arsenal’s trip, and responded to questions about the club’s slow window.
Green shared: “I was speaking to a couple of Arsenal fans earlier who were on the America tour, were with Arsenal, did have a chance to speak to Edu and Edu said with regard to transfers coming in, ‘Be patient, you won’t be disappointed at the end!’
“And that really does allude to the fact that they’re not done with their business and they’ll be expecting one or two more signings to come through the door.”
That will be music to the ears of Arsenal fans who will be very happy to see more players of Calafiori’s calibre arrive to improve their squad.
Arteta didn’t enjoy enough strength in depth last season, a problem that could now be remedied.
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