Sports

Arsenal Sign Italy Euro 2024 Star From Bologna

Published

1 year ago

July 30, 2024

Arsenal have signed Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on what the Premier League club said on Monday was a “long-term contract”. No fee was…

Arsenal have signed Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna on what the Premier League club said on Monday was a “long-term contract”.

No fee was disclosed, but British media reports said Calafiori, 22, had arrived at the Emirates Stadium on a five-year deal worth £42 million ($54 million) after representing Italy at Euro 2024.

“We welcome Riccardo and his family to Arsenal,” said Gunners manager Mikel Arteta. “He is a great signing and gives us huge strength to reinforce our defence.

“Riccardo is a big personality and character, with specific skills which will make us stronger as we push to win major trophies.

READ ALSO:Transfer: Arteta Gives Two Conditions To Sell Arsenal Midfielder
“He has already shown great development in recent seasons with his performances for both Bologna and Italy, with his progression and development in the past year being really impressive.

“We’re looking forward to working with Riccardo, integrating him into the squad and supporting him in the years to come.”

Calafiori becomes Arsenal’s second major signing of the summer transfer window after David Raya’s loan move from London rivals Brentford was made permanent.

The Gunners will be looking to go one better in the 2024/25 season after finishing runners-up to Premier League champions Manchester City by just two points last term.

Riccardo started his career in the youth academy at Roma, where he spent 12 years developing from the youth set-up into the first-team. During his time there, he gained valuable experience on loan at fellow Italian side Genoa during the 2021/22 season.

In August 2022, the young defender, who has represented his national team at every age group, moved to Swiss side Basel, where he was a regular and made 26 league appearances that season.

His high-quality performances resulted in a return to his homeland, with the imposing defender transferring to Bologna in August 2023.

Last season, Riccardo was a leading figure in their backline, emerging as one of the strongest and most consistent performers in Serie A.

He played an integral role in helping ‘I Rossoblu’ to an impressive fifth position and Champions League qualification for the first time in 60 years.

Riccardo’s dominant and physical performances were not only recognised with his Euros call-up, but by him also winning the Serie A Player of the Month for May 2024.

Sports

Enabulele Celebrates Edo Deputy Governor on Birthday

Published

2 days ago

August 12, 2025

Editor

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has congratulated the Deputy Governor of Edo State, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on the occasion of his birthday.

In a statement issued on Monday through his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described Idahosa as a true democrat, a results-driven leader, and a high-flyer.

“You have continued to distinguish yourself in all your endeavours. Even as a young legislator, your impactful representation and laudable stewardship exemplify the true definition of a performer, earning you the admiration of many,” he said.

Enabulele further noted that Idahosa’s life is a testament to the importance of loyalty and respect, particularly in his current role as a supportive Deputy Governor. “You have stood firmly behind your boss, and that epitomizes true leadership,” he stated.

“As you celebrate another milestone, I join family, friends, and well-wishers across the globe in acknowledging your humility, commitment, and determination to ensure Edo State continues to rise under Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda,” Enabulele added.

He commended the Deputy Governor’s unwavering dedication to nation-building, his vision for a better Edo, and his commitment to advancing and safeguarding the interests of all Edo people, regardless of status or circumstance, describing these qualities as “worthy of emulation.”

“We pray that Almighty God continues to grant you wisdom, good health, sound mind, happiness, and joy as you celebrate another year,” the statement concluded.

Sports

Edo SWAN Felicitates Deputy Governor On Birth Anniversary

Published

2 days ago

August 12, 2025

Editor

‎The Leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Edo State chapter, has felicitated with deputy governor of the state, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, on his birth anniversary.

A felicitation message jointly signed by Comrade Kehind Osagiede and Comrade Idahosa Moses, Edo SWAN Chairman and Secretary, on behalf of all sports writers in the state said, ‎”all of us at SWAN in Edo state are delighted over this milestone and wish that many more celebrations come your way now and always.”

The duo, in the message, while describing the deputy governor as a man of “honour, candour and commitment to public good as you have aptly demonstrated in the task of sports and youths development in Edo state,” acknowledged his support and encouragement to the body since he assumed office.

The message reads: “Your dedication to serving the people of Edo State and your insightful contributions to good governance is highly commendable
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“‎Today, we celebrate a visionary leader who is propelling the sports sector to unprecedented heights.
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“‎As you celebrate this special day, we wish Your Excellency good health and fulfillment in all your aspirations.”