Inter Milan Legend Tips Nerazzurri Youngster For Greatness & Claims Veteran Defender ‘Deserves To Be In Italy Squad’ | OneFootball

Inter legend Alessandro Altobelli believes Francesco Pio Esposito has the potential to become Italy’s next great centre-forward, but has urged the club and the national team to protect the youngster as he continues his rapid rise.

Speaking to Tuttosport, the former Azzurri striker offered strong praise for both Esposito and veteran Inter defender Francesco Acerbi.

Altobelli noted how quickly the forward is developing.

“He’s scoring both for Inter and for the national team,” he said, with quotes via FCInterNews.

However, he stressed that the youngster must be allowed to grow naturally.

“We need to leave him calm and not give him all the responsibility, but he will definitely give a lot to the Azzurri shirt.”

He went even further, adding that Esposito could eventually make Italy say: “Finally we have a great striker again.”

Inter Legend Altobelli Backs Acerbi & Pio Esposito

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 25: Francesco Acerbi of Internazionale looks on during the warm up prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and Torino FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 25, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The former World Cup winner also backed Acerbi for an international return, highlighting the defender’s character.

“Would I call up Acerbi? He has always given everything for his teams,” Altobelli said.

“He deserves to be there, also to give advice to his teammates.”

However, he acknowledged the final decision lies with Italy coach Gennaro Gattuso.

“Gattuso knows what he’s doing and will choose the best.”

Altobelli’s comments underline both Inter’s promising future in attack and the continued value of their defensive veterans.