vox888 Riccardo Calafiori has revealed what Italy boss Luciano Spalletti and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta have in common – their initial footballing mindset. vox888

The match between Italy and Belgium will be played at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday.

Italy are three points clear at the top of their Nations League group thanks to victories over France and Israel, and their next game is on Thursday against Israel on Monday at Udinese’s Blue Energy stadium.

Arsenal defender Calafiori was chosen to attend the press conference as he knows the stadium well, having come through Roma’s academy.

“Playing here gives me something special and I will try to use it to my fullest potential on the pitch. I am very happy to play in front of my friends and family,” the former Bologna defender said.

The 22-year-old has now scored once in eight appearances for Arsenal.

“The Premier League is very different to Serie A, so it’s always good to learn to play in a different style and rhythm. I hope I can be an example for other young players to follow.”

“The most noticeable thing after the Euros is the intensity of the training and the different games, without a doubt. Every game is hard fought. No one expects the defense, which makes it more fun.”

When asked if there were many similarities between Arteta and Spalletti’s footballing styles?

“It’s a complicated question. The commonality between the two is that they both try to dominate the game in their own way, and I agree with that. It’s better to take initiative like this.” ( vox888 )