Riccardo Calafiori has admitted that being booed by Italy supporters hurt after the Azzurri suffered a 2-0 Nations League defeat to Belgium at the Stadio Olimpico.The Arsenal defender has endured a difficult year with his country after Italy failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.Calafiori was among those criticised following that painful failure, while he later revealed that he found the World Cup itself difficult to watch because of the disappointment of Italy missing out.That frustration has clearly not disappeared.Calafiori responds after Italy supporters turn on teamAccording to Football Italia, Italy were jeered off at full-time after Roberto Mancini’s second spell in charge began with a defeat.Calafiori did not hide from the criticism and acknowledged that Italy still have plenty of work to do.He said:“They hurt, because at times I felt the passion of the crowd. We’ve got to do better, we all know that, starting from the next match.”The defender also felt there had been some positive moments despite the result, but admitted Italy had left gaps and conceded two avoidable goals.Calafiori playing for ItalyArsenal star facing another test with ItalyCalafiori remains one of the most important players in the national setup, but the pressure around Italy is understandably intense after their World Cup disappointment.For the Arsenal man, the challenge now is to help his country respond while also returning to North London in good condition once the international break ends.His comments suggest the boos were felt personally, but there is also an acceptance that supporters expect far more from a nation with Italy’s history.Do you think the criticism of Italy has gone too far, or are supporters right to demand much better after missing another World Cup? Let us know in the comments._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest News“They hurt” – Calafiori reacts after Italy fans jeer team off the pitch27 September 2026, 22:45From Ted Drake tribute to West Ham frustration: My bittersweet Arsenal day27 September 2026, 21:00Arsenal Women Weekly Roundup: Chelsea loss, European win and Fox boost27 September 2026, 19:30The post “They hurt” – Calafiori reacts after Italy fans jeer team off the pitch appeared first on Just Arsenal News.