McGinn Names Toughest Defenders: Calafiori and Shaw

Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn identified Riccardo Calafiori of Arsenal and Luke Shaw of Manchester United as the toughest defenders he has encountered in the Premier League. During an appearance on the Stick To Football podcast, McGinn expressed surprise at Calafiori's strength and noted that he had to adapt his game to compete with Shaw, highlighting their similar builds.

Calafiori transferred to Arsenal from Bologna in 2024 for £33.7 million, with potential add-ons of £8.3 million, and has made 67 appearances for the Gunners, contributing to their Premier League-winning campaign in 2025-26. Shaw, who joined Manchester United from Southampton in 2014 for £30 million plus £1 million in add-ons, has faced injury challenges but remains a key player, with 328 appearances across all competitions.

McGinn is scheduled to face Calafiori again in a Premier League match on Monday, August 31.