Calafiori 'can’t wait' for Italy’s play-off: 'Anything can happen' at World Cup

Arsenal star Riccardo Calafiori is eagerly anticipating his arrival at Coverciano to prepare for Italy's crucial World Cup play-off. The young defender expressed his strong belief, stating, "If we go to America, anything can happen."

The Arsenal defender shared his thoughts on Italy's upcoming World Cup challenge during an interview with Sport Week.

Despite having only made 12 appearances for the Italy national team since his Azzurri debut less than two years ago, the 23-year-old is recognized as one of the key players included by Gattuso in his 28-man squad.

Calafiori debuted for the Azzurri under Luciano Spalletti just weeks before the start of Euro 2024, where he arguably emerged as one of Italy's most impressive performers throughout the tournament.

"Competition for that position was fierce. I had hoped for a call-up, but I wasn’t sure what the outcome would be," the Arsenal defender recounted.

"Within just a few days, I made my debut and secured a starting spot at the Euros. It was an incredible feeling. My friends in Rome watched me on giant screens, and the entire country rooted for us."

Although he scored an own goal in a 1-0 group stage loss to Spain, Calafiori later provided the crucial assist for Mattia Zaccagni’s late equalizer against Croatia, which secured the Azzurri's qualification for the Round of 16.

"The own goal bothered me a little, but when I returned to the pitch against Croatia, I felt very serene," Calafiori stated.

"I was determined to redeem myself. I did so with that assist for Zaccagni, and we managed to qualify for the Round of 16. That was the most intense emotion of my career."

Italy is set to commence preparations for the World Cup play-off on Monday. When asked about his feelings, Calafiori replied:

"Positive. We are pumped up, and we have a great desire to reach the World Cup."

"I can't wait to get to Coverciano and spend time with my teammates. Our history shows that if we manage to be a united group, we can compete on par with anyone. If we make it to America, anything can happen."

Calafiori continued, "If we play as we know we can, we’ll qualify for the World Cup. On paper, we are superior, and we simply must believe in our own abilities."

"While there's often some negativity surrounding us, I am confident that the fans will be fully behind us. The objective is attainable; we must remain united."

Italy is scheduled to face Northern Ireland in the semi-final on March 26. Should they advance, they will then play against either Wales or Bosnia and Herzegovina in the final.

Calafiori has recently reconnected in London with Edoardo Bove, who moved to Watford during the January transfer window.

"We live in the same building," Calafiori revealed. "Since Arsenal's and Watford's training centers are adjacent, Edo sought a home in the same vicinity. I truly believe it’s destiny. Once together in Roma's youth academy, now we're neighbors in London."

"A few days ago, I hugged him and gently touched his subcutaneous defibrillator. It felt a little unusual, but he's calm and ready to conquer the world. I'm truly delighted for Edo."