Inter Milan President Heaps Praise On Teenage Sensation Italy Striker: “Has Talent & Maturity, But Must Grow To Become A Champion” | OneFootball

According to Inter Milan president Beppe Marotta, Francesco Pio Esposito has the potential to become one of the best players in the world.

During his latest interview via FCInter1908, Marotta praised the young gun for his ‘talent and maturity.’

Indeed, after a superb breakout season at Spezia, the 20-year-old has returned to base.

Moreover, new Cristian Chivu has insisted on keeping the teenage striker amid genuine interest from Napoli.

Therefore, Inter turned down Napoli’s €40 million bid in the summer, opting to keep Esposito at San Siro.

Despite his limited game time in the first two Serie A matches, Esposito could have a significant role this season.

Meanwhile, he made his senior debut for Italy last week, coming on as a late substitute in a 5-0 rout of Estonia.

Inter Milan President Beppe Marotta Waxes Lyrical About Francesco Pio Esposito

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 25: Francesco Esposito #94 of FC Internazionale Milano celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with Lautaro Martinez #10 during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and CA River Plate at Lumen Field on June 25, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

“Francesco Pio Esposito is definitely a great talent, but to become a true champion, he still needs to grow,” Beppe Marotta said.

“Most of the credit goes to him, although it must be combined with the work done by his family.

“They raised him and his brothers well, with his development at Inter, and his own abilities.

“Today, we can consider him a talent, given his age.

“However, to become a champion, he needs to develop qualities such as humility, perseverance, and passion in everything he does.

“Pio has already reached a high level of maturity.

“But personally, I’ve seen many talents who remained just that because they didn’t combine technical skills with personal qualities.

“So far, his path has been positive, and we hope to continue supporting him in the best way possible.”

With Inter set to take on Juventus this weekend, Esposito could be an unlikely hero.

However, the youngster will likely start on the bench, with Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez expected to lead the line.