Haaland comments on Inter starlet Pio Esposito & hints at future in Serie A | OneFootball

Erling Haaland kept it candid on the eve of Norway’s decisive World Cup qualifier against Italy, as he prepares to face rising Inter and Azzurri talent Francesco Pio Esposito at San Siro.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, with quotes via FCInterNews, the Manchester City striker admitted he doesn’t yet know much about his young opponent but still had words of respect for the Nerazzurri starlet.

MONZA, ITALY – AUGUST 12: Pio Esposito of FC Internazionale celebrates after scoring their team’s second goal during the Pre-season Friendly match between AC Monza and FC Internazionale at U-Power Stadium on August 12, 2025 in Monza, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“To be honest, I don’t know much about him. Maybe they’ll kill me for saying this, but when you play for Italy, you must have quality. And you need that same quality when you play for Inter, that’s how it is.”

Haaland on playing in Serie A: ‘You never know…’

Haaland was also asked about the possibility of one day playing in Serie A, a question that has followed him since his teenage years.

“I like this country. I’ve played some good games here. You never know what can happen in the future. I’m in a good place in my life right now, but you can never say never.”

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 18: Erling Haaland of Manchester City embraces Kevin De Bruyne of Napoli prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Manchester City and SSC Napoli at City of Manchester Stadium on September 18, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

The Norwegian star has been in prolific form for both club and country and will look to extend that run against an Italy side determined to secure momentum ahead of the play-offs.

Esposito, meanwhile, could earn another cap for Gennaro Gattuso’s men as he looks for his first goal at San Siro.