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Riccardo Calafiori is in the form of his life right now, and it doesn't seem like any player is close to kicking him out of the starting lineup.
Which is a wild thing to say, considering Myles Lewis-Skelly, who is a fully-fledged England international these days, is competing for a spot. The Hale End graduate won the hearts of many last season, but Calafiori has took his spot back.
So far this season, Calafiori has started every match for Arsenal. He's been included in the lineup in the opening trio, which might not have been the case if he hadn't shone for Arsenal against Man United on the opening weekend.
Mikel Arteta granted Riccardo Calafiori his longtime wish
The truth is, Riccardo Calafiori has always been very vocal about his desire to play. Despite being a rotational player at times, he's always wanted to play every available minute for Arsenal.
Even in his first interview for the club, Calafiori made his wish known: He wants to play, he doesn't just want to sit around and observe London's history.
Back in July 2024, Calafiori said: “I came here to play so I will do everything to play and to give something to the team. I hope I can do that from the first few games."
“From my point of view, it’s just the start, the beginning of something bigger. I’m excited to start to play for Arsenal and to win trophies.”
Calafiori was then struck by unfortunate injury concerns in his first season, which held back the momentum he'd set. This is about the time that Myles Lewis-Skelly burst onto the scene and began to impress for Arsenal.
Even throughout the injury concerns, Calafiori never considered himself out of the starting lineup. He never threw a strop and instead, he made the most of his chances. This is the exact reason why Calafiori is in the position he's in.
And look, we know this game. There will be a point in time, maybe even against Forest, where Calafiori is dropped to the bench and Myles Lewis-Skelly is given another opportunity. But even when that happens, Mikel Arteta has already proven one thing: he trusts Calafiori and he rides with him.
So, Mikel Arteta has given Calafiori his wish, and so far this season, Calafiori has repaid Arteta for his trust, and then some. Long may this mutually beneficial exchange continue.