Inter Milan Coach Can Rely On Youngster In Captain’s Absence | OneFootball

Inter Milan head coach Cristian Chivu continues to face a selection headache between youngster Francesco Pio Esposito and recovering captain Lautaro Martinez.

The Argentine superstar has been facing back pain since his return from international duty last week.

After returning to Lombardy on Wednesday 10 September, the Inter captain played just 45 minutes against Juventus last weekend.

The striker was then absent in the win over Ajax this week, with youngster Pio Esposito taking his place.

Inter Milan coach Chivu Can Put Faith In Pio Esposito In Absence of Lautaro

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – JUNE 30: Francesco Esposito #94 of FC Internazionale Milano arrives at the stadium. Prior to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 match between FC Internazionale Milano and Fluminense FC. At Bank of America Stadium on June 30, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

According to what has been reported by today’s edition of the Gazzetta dello Sport, via FCInter1908, Chivu is ready to put more faith in the young forward.

The coach discovered that Pio Esposito is a solid natural replacement for the Argentine when he is absent.

The young forward could start against Sassuolo on Sunday.

Instead, Martinez could come off the bench and Pio Esposito could be given the nod to start.

The youngster held his own against Ajax and looked solid in partnership with Thuram.

Although he did not score, his movement and work-rate were a constant boon for his side.

Summer signing Ange-Yoan Bonny is also an option for Chivu to replace Lautaro.

The Frenchman arrived from Chivu’s old club Parma in the summer.

However, Bonny has played just 59 minutes across four appearances this season.

Despite this, he has scored, off the bench in their 5-0 opening day win against Torino.

Although, Bonny requires more game-time to reach his true potential.