Arsenal’s Riccardo Calafiori has revealed an unexpected footballing idol – and it’s not who many would have guessed.

During a recent exclusive interview with VERSUS, the Italian international opened up about a range of topics, from his duties as an ambassador for adidas’ underwear range to his personal opinion on who possesses the best hairstyle at Arsenal (it’s Noni Madueke, by the way).

But it was his footballing idol that really caught attention.

Despite what many might think about him idolizing legendary Italian defenders such as Paolo Maldini or Alessandro Nesta, Calafiori shared that his true inspiration originated from a more unexpected figure: Aleksandar Kolarov, the previous Manchester City and AS Roma full-back.

“When I was a young player at Roma, I had the privilege to train with the senior team,” Calafiori explained. “I had the chance to learn directly from Aleksandar Kolarov, who played in my position. Observing him each day – his skill, his mindset – was invaluable, and he shared insights and details with me that I still remember today.”

Though Kolarov was his primary role model, Calafiori acknowledged the renowned defending legends. “Of course, players like Maldini, Nesta, Chiellini… they are iconic to me,” he noted.

Elsewhere in the interview, the 23-year-old spoke about life at Arsenal since his £42m summer move from Bologna last summer.

“It’s a wonderful experience,” he remarked. “Everyone here is great, we’re like friends, and I feel very at home. The last season had its difficulties, but I returned this summer full of determination. I was eager to get started again. Competing in the Premier League is a dream for countless players, and now I just want to relish this opportunity and consistently prove what I am capable of.”

Kolarov was renowned for his reliability at Manchester City, contributing to the team’s clinching of two Premier League championships. Now, Calafiori aspires to emulate his idol’s achievements at Arsenal.