Ajax 0-2 Inter Milan: Italy Youngster Humble After Champions League Debut: “I Can Still Improve, I Like Dzeko A Lot” | OneFootball

Inter Milan starlet Francesco Pio Esposito identified Edin Dzeko as one of his idols after making his Champions League debut against Ajax.

Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the 20-year-old admitted he was proud to wear the Nerazzurri shirt on the grandest stage.

Despite his limited playing time in Serie A this season, the young gun found himself in the starting line-up tonight.

Indeed, he had to sit out Inter’s opening-day clash against Torino due to suspension.

Then, he made a late cameo appearance against Udinese before spending the Derby d’Italia clash against Juventus on the bench.

However, with Lautaro Martinez injured, the former Spezia loanee had the privilege of starting for Inter at Europe’s top table.

Unfortunately, he failed to get on the scoresheet. Marcus Thuram soaked up the limelight as Inter’s hero, netting a match-winning brace.

Nonetheless, it was a huge occasion for Esposito.

Francesco Pio Esposito Names Edin Dzeko as One of His Idols After Ajax 0-2 Inter Milan

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)

“Thank you for the compliments,” Esposito claimed. “Here you play at the very top level.

“I try to bring my own qualities and certainties onto the pitch, working for the team and using my physicality.

“Just as I did in Serie B, I try to do it everywhere. Tonight it went well and I’m happy.”

Then, he named former Inter striker Edin Dzeko as one of his childhood idols.

“I really like Dzeko,” Esposito added. “I was lucky enough to watch him train at Appiano.

“He plays for the team first, then for the goal. And of course, my teammates up front are world-class.

“Marcus showed that tonight. I try to learn from them every single day.”

Finally, Esposito admitted he still has ample room for improvement.

“I can improve my explosiveness and quickness.

“As for strengths, I’d say protecting the ball and my presence in the box. But I can improve in every aspect.

“I’m only 20 and I have lots of room to grow. Those are just the first things that come to mind.”