Calafiori admits Arsenal must improve despite Old Trafford win

Riccardo Calafiori has admitted that Arsenal still “have to improve” despite a hard-fought 1-0 win over Manchester United in their Premier League opener on Sunday.

The 23-year-old defender scored the only goal at Old Trafford, turning home from a set-piece routine that has become a trademark under Mikel Arteta.

“Like always we were working a lot on set-pieces and that is what we showed today,” Calafiori told Sky Sports.

“We have to improve if possible and keep going. If we want to compete at the high level we have to be good in every position.”

The Italian, who joined from Bologna last summer, emphasised the strength of competition within the squad. “My team-mates are ready to play and it is not easy to play every game.

“The confidence we have inside is going to bring up the level. Hopefully I play a lot but if not there is another teammate that can play.”

Calafiori has now registered three Premier League goals for the Gunners, adding to his Champions League strike against PSV Eindhoven last season.