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ARSENAL'S new £42million defender Riccardo Calafiori took just a few words to win over fans.

Emirates' boss Mikel Arteta unveiled the Italian Euro 2024 star to his Gunners' team-mates at a Monday meeting.

Manager Mikel Arteta and players gave Riccardo Calafiori a friendly welcome
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Manager Mikel Arteta and players gave Riccardo Calafiori a friendly welcome
Calafiori appeared bashful when introduced to team-mates
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Calafiori appeared bashful when introduced to team-matesCredit: X @Arsenal

Arsenal posted a clip of Arteta introducing the club's objectives for the coming week.

And the Spaniard opened up by welcoming the ex-Bologna hero.

Calafiori drew rousing applause from the Gunners' players.

And when Arteta asked if he wanted to say a few words, viewers loved the five-cap ace being heard to say: "Is it real?"

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The 22-year-old then gave a bashful smile as he stood up to complete his brief but brilliantly-received response.

Calafiori added: "Of course I'm really happy to be here. I waited a lot.

"I hope we are going to do something great this year.

"Just this. Thank you."

Calafiori arrives at the Emirates after shining at Euro 2024 for Italy
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Calafiori arrives at the Emirates after shining at Euro 2024 for ItalyCredit: PA

It was enough for one viewer to say: "Proper Gooner right there."

Another wrote: "We have a new family member."

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And a third fan responded: "Welcome to the mighty Arsenal, mini Maldini" - a reference to all-time great Azzurri defender Paolo Maldini.

Calafiori has signed a five-year contract at the Emirates following a transfer saga that dragged on following the Euros.

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Arteta is a big fan of the former Basel star's versatility, as he can play at left-back as well as in central defence.

The manager hailed him as a "great signing" - adding: “Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies."

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Arsenal have a tricky start to the season
Arsenal have a tricky start to the season

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