Inter Milan Legend Hails Young Italian Sensation: “He Can Become A Champion – Inter Were Right To Keep Him” | OneFootball

Alessandro Altobelli has joined the growing list of admirers of Francesco Pio Esposito, the Inter striker who continues to impress with both club and country.

Speaking to La Stampa, via FCInterNews, after the youngster’s latest goal for the Italy national team, the Nerazzurri legend expressed total confidence in his potential.

“Esposito can become a champion,” Altobelli assured.

“We have strong young players in Italy: we need to believe in them and give them chances.”

The former striker, affectionately known as Spillo, was a prolific goalscorer for Inter in the 1970s and 80s, and sees similar traits in the young forward now making his mark under Cristian Chivu.

Altobelli: “Inter Were Right To Keep Pio Esposito”

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 21: Francesco Pio Esposito of Internazionale reacts during the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and US Sassuolo Calcio at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 21, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Altobelli highlighted both the physical strength and technical ability that make Esposito a rare prospect.

“He has physique and quality,” he continued.

“If Inter decided to keep him rather than send him out on loan, it’s because they know how much potential he has. And he made the right decision too: playing alongside great players is fundamental to becoming a champion.”

With two goals in four Italy appearances and growing influence at San Siro, Esposito is fast becoming one of the most exciting young forwards in Serie A.