Key Takeaways:
- Riccardo Calafiori reiterated his longstanding desire to rejoin Roma in the future
- The Arsenal defender reflected on his untimely departure from Roma and feelings of unfinished business in the Italian capital
- Despite his Premier League success, Calafiori’s emotional ties to Roma continue to shape his career aspirations
Calafiori Reflects on Roma Exit and Future Aspirations
Riccardo Calafiori, currently plying his trade for Arsenal, has revealed the depth of his attachment to his formative club, Roma, and articulated a strong ambition to return in the coming years. Speaking on the Supernova podcast, the Italian international addressed the circumstances around his departure from the Giallorossi and acknowledged a lingering sense of unfinished business with the club where his professional journey began.
"I left something unfinished" 🗣️
Arsenal star Riccardo Calafiori has revealed that he wants to re-sign for Roma 'sooner or later'https://t.co/AfeTgm1bzo pic.twitter.com/uHG073jShK
— Mirror Football (@MirrorFootball) March 2, 2026
Tenure at Roma: Early Promise and Abrupt End
Calafiori discussed how his time at Roma began auspiciously, with significant contributions in the first six months under José Mourinho, including a goal and several assists. However, his opportunities diminished dramatically after the Bodo Glimt-Roma fixture, leading to limited appearances thereafter. He subsequently went on loan to Genoa, but featured only three times. During his absence, Roma secured the UEFA Europa Conference League title, cementing his perception that opportunities for him had evaporated at the club.
Ambitions for a Future Roma Reunion
Despite thriving abroad and competing in the Premier League, Calafiori’s statements underscore that his dedication to Roma remains undiminished. He explicitly conveyed his intention to return, underscoring that such a reunion is a deeply held goal rather than a meticulously plotted plan. The player’s account reveals that his achievements elsewhere have not diluted his hopes for a homecoming, with emotional connections playing a decisive role in his future outlook.
Player’s Own Words
“I’d like to return to Roma sooner or later. We can’t plan it, of course, but yes, I want to return.”
“It all started very well, with a goal. I played a lot for the first six months with Mourinho, even providing a few assists. Then came Bodo Glimt-Roma, and from that moment on I didn’t play again. I went to Genoa on loan, but I didn’t play there either. Only three appearances. In the meantime, Roma won the Conference. There was no more room for me.”
