Riccardo Calafiori has revealed that he used an unorthodox method to learn English ahead of his summer move to Arsenal.
The 22-year-old Italy international was Bologna's standout performer last season as the Serie A side secured European football for the first time in 22 years.
A number of Premier League clubs, including West Ham, Newcastle and Brighton, expressed an interest in signing Calafiori, according to The Athletic.
But after an impressive Euro 2024 campaign with Italy, he was snapped up by high-flying Arsenal, who forked out £42 million on the former Roma and Basel defender.
Advert
It hasn't taken long for Calafiori to settle. Speaking to Roman Kemp in an interview with Football Focus this week, he opened up on adapting to life in the capital.
He also spoke about using Netflix and UK drill music to pick up different sayings and words.
"I have been learning English since I was a kid," he said. "I started with Netflix, with some song lyrics, and a little UK drill music too. I'm still learning and I want to improve."
Calafiori added: "The food here is not so bad, I expected worse, it's no so bad. Fish and chips is good, once per month you can eat it. I want to feel the whole experience here."
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was full of praise for Calafiori after he scored in their highly-entertaining 2-2 draw against Manchester City last month.
“He’s really good," the Spaniard said. "He’s adapted really well to the group, his understanding is exceptional and you see he’s a player with an enormous courage and personality to play, so he’s going to give us a lot.”
Calafiori made an instant impression on many, including club captain Martin Odegaard. "I think everyone saw it straight away in training that he is a top player," the Norway international said.
"He is a top, physical defender with a presence on the pitch. I am sure he is going to give us a lot. We are happy to have him on board and looking forward to seeing more from him."
Arsenal will travel to Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon as they look to put pressure on Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Topics: Arsenal, Premier League, Serie A
Jack Kenmare