Former Inter Milan Striker Reflects On Journey & Advice For Italy Starlet: ‘Focus On The Present’ | OneFootball

Cremonese forward and former Inter Milan man Federico Bonazzoli is enjoying one of the best spells of his career, emerging as the only centre-forward among Serie A’s leading scorers with four goals.

Speaking to La Repubblica, the former Inter Milan forward reflected on his long journey from youth prospect to seasoned professional.

“The midfielders are stealing our jobs,” he joked after his recent brace.

“It feels great to be among such big names again – especially scoring in a stadium where I played a lot with Sampdoria.”

Bonazzoli admitted that the weight of expectation hit him hard in his early years.

“When I left Inter’s academy, I wasn’t ready to handle it. I didn’t even have a licence and was already playing in Serie A. I got lost between loans, but I never gave up. Now I’ve found peace and balance, also thanks to my partner.”

Former Inter Milan Forward Bonazzoli Offers Advice To Pio Esposito

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

He also took a moment to offer guidance to the next generation of strikers.

“To players like Camarda and Pio Esposito, I’d say: focus on today. Don’t get caught up in the hype or criticism. Love what you do, work on the details, and use every match to gain experience.”

Bonazzoli remains close to his roots at Inter, keeping in touch with old academy teammates.

“I spoke to Dimarco half an hour ago – whenever one of us scores, the other writes. I’m very close to him and Michele Di Gregorio,” he said.

The 28-year-old still dreams of representing Italy one day.

“It’s just a dream, not an obsession,” he smiled.