Arsenal delivered a dominant performance in the Champions League on Tuesday night, crushing PSV Eindhoven 7-1 to establish a commanding advantage ahead of the second leg of their round of 16 tie. The Gunners were in scintillating form, with several players standing out throughout the match.
Martin Ødegaard, Mikel Merino, and Ethan Nwaneri were among those who impressed, with Nwaneri making history as one of the youngest goalscorers in Champions League history. However, another player who caught the attention of fans was Riccardo Calafiori, whose performance has sparked calls for him to be given more attacking opportunities.
Standout Display Against PSV
Making an Impact Off the Bench
Although he started the match as a substitute, Calafiori was called into action earlier than expected, replacing Myles Lewis-Skelly in the first half. The Italian defender seized the moment, putting in a lively display and troubling PSV’s defense throughout the game. Despite being a natural defender, he showcased his attacking qualities with an impressive offensive contribution.
By the end of the match, Calafiori had registered a key pass, a goal, an assist, nine progressive passes, and an 8.3 SofaScore rating. His performance highlighted his effectiveness in the final third—an attribute Arsenal could use given their recent injury concerns in attack, with Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Jesus all sidelined. Based on this showing, Calafiori could be a viable option to bolster the Gunners’ frontline.
Arsenal Fans Want Calafiori in Attack
Supporters Are Excited by His Potential
Arsenal fans were thrilled with Calafiori’s display and took to social media to express their excitement, urging Mikel Arteta to utilize him in a more advanced role. One fan posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Calafiori needs a chance at left 8/up front—I’m not even joking.” Another echoed the sentiment, suggesting: “Lowkey, why don’t we try him as a striker?”
His late goal against PSV only fueled the enthusiasm. One supporter noted: “That’s why Arteta used him up front at times against Nottingham Forest. That was a proper striker’s goal—perfect timing on the run, great finish. Wild player.” Another simply declared: “Calafiori at center forward needs to happen. That was a top-class weak-foot finish.”
Some fans even compared him favorably to Arsenal’s current attackers, with one stating: “Calafiori is more dangerous in the final third than Sterling. What a finish.” Given his encouraging performances in advanced roles, Arteta might have to seriously consider deploying him further up the pitch.