Ex AC Milan, Inter Milan & Italy Bad Boy Praises Nerazzurri Prodigy: “Superior Talent” | OneFootball

Eternal bad boy of Italian football, Mario Balotelli, has waxed lyrical about Inter Milan prodigy Francesco Pio Esposito.

During his recent interview via FCInterNews, Balotelli praised the 20-year-old’s ‘superior’ talent.

Widely regarded as one of Italy’s finest young players, Francesco Pio Esposito has hit his stride at the start of the season.

Indeed, the teenage striker has established himself as a first-team regular at Inter Milan despite fierce competition for places.

Despite his youth, Esposito is delivering performances beyond his age.

Moreover, he has scored once in four Serie A appearances, proving Cristian Chivu right for trusting him to stay at San Siro.

The 44-year-old persuaded the club not to sell the Italian youngster in the summer amid growing interest from domestic and foreign sides.

Meanwhile, Esposito scored his first-ever senior goal for Italy at the weekend, netting in a 3-1 win over Estonia.

Therefore, he has drawn broad plaudits for his sublime form.

Mario Balotelli Heaps Praise on Inter Milan Teenager Francesco Pio Esposito

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)

If there’s anyone qualified to speak about the pressure of being a rising star, it’s Balotelli.

Once considered a prodigy with immense potential, Balotelli understands the scrutiny young players endure.

However, ‘Super Mario’ also recognizes Esposito’s potential to become one of the world’s best strikers.

“He has talent, he is a good player,” Balotelli claimed. “He is young; boys like him must be given time.

“But he certainly has a talent superior to many others. Therefore, he can certainly have a good future.

“He sees the goal, he scores, and I like these players.”

Meanwhile, Balotelli congratulated Chivu for becoming the Nerazzurri head coach.

“It’s impressive to see him on the bench,” the veteran ace added. “But he’s a good person, he knows football.

“And so in my opinion, there can be someone like him on the Inter bench.”