Riccardo Calafiori praises Arsenal’s defensive strength after Aston Villa win

Riccardo Calafiori says Arsenal’s defensive resilience was the foundation of their 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at Villa Park, a result which made it three wins from three in all competitions.

The Italy full-back played a key part in the decisive moment, keeping the ball in play with a stretched effort before delivering an excellent cross into the penalty area for Bukayo Saka to score.

Calafiori has now contributed one goal and two assists this season, while Arsenal have recorded three successive clean sheets. He said he was unsure why he had made such a strong start individually, but was particularly pleased by the collective defensive effort.

“I think it’s impossible to know the reason for starting the season well,” Calafiori said.

The 1-0 success was Arsenal’s latest test against difficult opposition and was especially welcome at a demanding venue.

“I’m so happy with the clean sheet. Especially when I talk with the guys, the defenders, I always say that if we don’t concede, we obviously have much more chance to win the game, and I think we always do so well.”

Calafiori said the physical and competitive nature of the match made the outcome even more satisfying.

“I’m so tired,” Calafiori said. “At the end of the game, it’s so important for us, especially at a tough place like this one. We just want to win when we come here and we did it.”

His assist for Saka was the latest important contribution in a tight game. Calafiori had also scored in Arsenal’s Community Shield victory over Manchester City and supplied the pass for Kai Havertz in their 3-0 win against Coventry City.

“I’m just so happy to pass the ball to B (Saka),” he said. “As I say, it was a tough, tough game. We need these kind of moments to change the game, and we did it.”

Arsenal’s defensive response

Arsenal’s improved defensive record has been notable after a pre-season in which they conceded too frequently. Calafiori believes the return of the squad’s key players has helped the team regain its organisation and intensity.

“In pre-season we were upset, I think we conceded too much, but then as the season started, we have all the players back,” he said.

The Italian highlighted the contribution of the entire side, including Arsenal’s attacking players, when reacting to danger and recovering their positions.

“We fight, and you see today how we make mistakes sometimes, but how we track back with the runs, it’s unbelievable. Each player, even the attackers, so I’m so happy.”

Calafiori also welcomed the arrivals of Bruno Guimaraes and Ezri Konsa, who made their Premier League debuts for Arsenal. He believes both players have adapted quickly to their new surroundings.

“I think it’s so easy to settle into our team. It was for me when I arrived,” Calafiori said.

“For them, they’re already much older than me and know the Premier League much better than me, so they are prepared. I think they’re good people outside the pitch as well.”

Arsenal will attempt to maintain their winning start when they host Chelsea at Emirates Stadium on Sunday.