Riccardo Calafiori 'doesn't want to come up against Liverpool' as Reds threat outlined

Winterburn warns Calafiori may struggle with Liverpool's pace in Sunday's Anfield clash, though Arsenal's title hopes hinge on a positive result.

Former Arsenal left-back Nigel Winterburn has raised concerns about Riccardo Calafiori's ability to cope with Liverpool's attacking pace ahead of Sunday's Premier League match at Anfield. Winterburn, speaking to Virgin Bet, suggested that Calafiori—who has become Mikel Arteta's preferred left-back for big matches despite being signed as a centre-back—may find the speed of Liverpool's wingers Bradley Barcola, Rio Ngumoha, Cody Gakpo and Victor Munoz particularly challenging.

Winterburnacknowledged Calafiori's attacking contributions this season (two goals and two assists in 10 appearances) but expressed concern about his defensive vulnerabilities against pace. "I would suggest maybe he doesn't want to come up against that—someone with too much pace," Winterburn said.

Despite these tactical concerns, Winterburn believes a win at Anfield would be crucial for Arsenal's title charge, especially with Manchester City facing potential sanctions. He noted that Arsenal are level on points with City but warned that back-to-back defeats—following their Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Fleetwood Town—would add pressure before the international break.