When Italy plays Belgium on Thursday, Riccardo Calafiori has teasingly advised his teammate Leandro Trossard of Arsenal to “watch out.”

This summer, Calafiori made his way from Bologna to north London in a £42 million trade following an outstanding season in Serie A.

And although the full-back’s first start for the Gunners was delayed due to an injury sustained while on international duty last month, he has since proven to be unstoppable following an outstanding debut against Manchester City.

The 22-year-old has played a significant role in Mikel Arteta’s team’s four-game winning streak, but the Italian will now return to his international duties as Gli Azzurri looks to improve on their victories against France and Israel in the Nations League last month.

Calafiori will take on fellow Gunners star Trossard in Thursday’s match against Belgium, and the defender is optimistic that he can triumph over his teammate this time.

“I warned him to be careful!” When questioned if he had talked to Trossard prior to the match, Calafiori recalled.

Joking aside, I will still attempt to win the three points even though he is an excellent player and friend.

Calafiori will face off against Leandro Trossard on Thursday (Picture: Getty)

‘It is going to be a complicated match, they have strong players, as do we. I prefer to focus on ourselves, because if we play the way we know how, then we can cause problems for any opponent.

‘We did so well in the last two games and don’t want to stop now.’

Having come through the academy and made his professional debut at Roma, Calafiori is looking forward to a return to the Stadio Olimpico but admitted his life has changed immeasurably since his last visit.

‘I am very happy to be playing at the Olimpico, I’d been waiting a long time for this moment,’ he added.

‘It is an extra reason to feel proud, seeing as my friends and family will be in the stands.

‘A lot has changed for my career and life over the last three or four months, without warning.

‘I do feel some extra responsibility, but I like that, because it means I am doing well and people expect a lot from me.’