Arsenal defender Riccardo Calafiori has opened up about the jubilant scenes that unfolded in the Arsenal dressing room after the club secured its first Premier League title in 22 years. The Italian international admitted the decisive slip by Manchester City at Bournemouth sparked an immediate surge of emotion, culminating in a historic triumph.
Calafiori, who made 26 appearances during the club’s remarkable campaign, lifted the trophy alongside his teammates following a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace on the final matchday. The Gunners finished the season with a seven-point lead over their closest rivals, sealing their place at the top of England’s top-flight competition.
a childhood dream fulfilled in london
Reflecting on the season’s climax, Calafiori described the Premier League title as a lifelong aspiration. « Winning the Premier League was one of my childhood dreams, and it felt incredible given how the season unfolded, » he shared. « The most powerful moment was the final whistle in the Bournemouth vs. Manchester City game. Everyone erupted with joy—staff and players celebrated as if freed from a 22-year wait. Walking through the city afterward, I truly grasped how much this victory meant to the fans and the community. »
arteta’s vision transforms arsenal’s future
Calafiori credited Mikel Arteta’s tactical acumen and the club’s long-term strategy for the team’s cohesion. He highlighted the stark differences between the Premier League and his native Serie A, emphasizing the patience and trust instilled in the manager. « In Italy, it’s unthinkable to give an underperforming coach time to turn things around. Here, the club showed immense faith in Arteta, and the results speak for themselves, » he noted. « My adaptation wasn’t easy—I’d never spent two seasons at one club before. The relentless fixture schedule and workload are unlike anything in Italy. Training focuses heavily on recovery, ensuring we’re at our best for every match. It’s all about mentality. »
a historic final awaits in budapest
As Arsenal prepares for the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, Calafiori will carry the hopes of Italian football on his shoulders. The 22-year-old, the only Italian representative in the final, reflected on the surreal journey from playing video game finals with his childhood friend to standing on Europe’s biggest stage. « I’ll have the chance to wear my country’s colors and chase this trophy in a year where we missed out on the World Cup. I’m staying calm for now, but I’m sure the magnitude will hit when I board the plane. Opportunities like this come once in a lifetime—you have to seize them, » he said.
