Riccardo Calafiori speaks of De Rossi’s impact: “He told me to join Arsenal.” | OneFootball

Former Roma man Riccardo Calafiori, now one of Arsenal and Italy’s top defenders, discussed his past in the capital and his friendship with Daniele De Rossi.

In an interview with BBC Sport, Calafiori looked back on the ACL injury he suffered while playing for Roma’s Primavera.

“It was a very hard time. I was only 16 and suddenly I started to think that I would never be able to play football again,” he said.

“But the injury helped me become a better player. I remember that the first month I was back on the pitch I faced every duel like a madman, I was no longer afraid.”

“De Rossi? He’s a friend of mine. I always turn to him when I have to make the most important decisions and he always gives me good advice.”

“I spoke to him about my possible arrival at Arsenal and he told me: ‘This is one of the greatest opportunities for you. There you can improve as a footballer.”