Arsenal boss Arteta: Calafiori showed why we signed him

Calafiori impresses in Arsenal's pre-season win

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has praised the performance of new signing Simone Calafiori after the defender impressed in the Gunners' pre-season win over Barcelona. Calafiori, who joined Arsenal from Roma this summer, played the full 90 minutes at right-back and was one of the standout performers in the 2-1 victory.

The Italian defender showed his versatility by playing in a number of positions during the game, and Arteta was impressed with his all-round performance.

Arteta: Calafiori is a 'natural talent'

"Calafiori is a natural talent," said Arteta. "He's only 19 years old, but he has the maturity and composure of a much more experienced player.

"He's very comfortable on the ball, he's good in the air, and he's a very good defender. I'm really excited to see how he develops in the future."

Calafiori's performance will have given Arteta food for thought ahead of the new season, and the defender could be in line to make his competitive debut for Arsenal in the Premier League opener against Fulham on August 13.

Calafiori: 'I'm delighted to be at Arsenal'

"I'm delighted to be at Arsenal," said Calafiori. "It's a great club with a lot of history and tradition, and I'm really excited to be part of it.

"I'm still young and I have a lot to learn, but I'm confident that I can make a contribution to the team. I'm looking forward to working hard and helping the club achieve success."