Arsenal defender Karafiori said the team’s pursuit of high-level players like Vinicius is essential to help the Gunners continue to solidify their Premier League competitiveness and maintain their title-contending level.
In an interview, Calafiori was asked if it was exciting for the team to be linked with such top players, and whether it reflected the club's ambition for the new season.
The Italian defender said: "Of course, I think this is the level we want to reach. We hope to continue at this level, and this is the season we want. I think the Premier League is starting a new cycle, and we hope to stay in this competition."
This summer was quite complicated for Calafiori. With Italy eliminated by Sweden in the World Cup qualifiers, he could only watch his club teammates head to North America for the tournament.
Speaking of his regret at missing the World Cup, Carafiori admitted that he even had difficulty watching the games.
“I haven’t watched many matches, and that’s what I’ve been saying from the beginning. It’s really upsetting that we didn’t qualify for the World Cup, and that feeling has been weighing on my mind. But the World Cup has such a huge impact that even if you don’t want to watch, you can see the matches anywhere you go, and they’re always on TV. In the end, I’m still happy for the three Spanish players on the team.”
However, this disappointment may also become a driving force for Carafiori in the new season. Injuries have been impacting his club career for some time, and this relatively complete summer break is expected to help him regain his peak form.
Calafiori said: "Yes, I think I can turn this emotion into motivation. I also think I've had a very good rest, and now I have to bring the remaining energy back to the team. I believe I can provide a lot of help to the team this season."
Despite Arsenal's Premier League title win, Calafiori has not forgotten the disappointment of losing the Champions League and League Cup finals last season.
Previously, after losing to Betis in a preseason match, Arteta stated that the team was "very angry." The experience of only winning one trophy last season clearly continues to motivate the team.
When asked how the team would continue to improve after winning the title, Carafiori said, "I don't think it's complicated. Because obviously, we reached two finals last season, but ultimately lost both. Now it's about starting from there again and trying to win those games, it's that simple."
