Attacking Puzzle – Italy Rising Star Primed For Starting Berth In Ajax Vs Inter Milan Clash On One Condition | OneFootball

Francesco Pio Esposito will likely replace Lautaro Martinez in Inter Milan’s starting line-up in tonight’s Champions League match against Ajax.

According to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the 20-year-old has overtaken Ange-Yoan Bonny in the pecking order.

Lautaro Martinez is at risk of missing tonight’s clash due to injury.

Indeed, back pain forced him off against Juventus last weekend.

Furthermore, the same problem prevented him from taking part in yesterday’s training session.

Therefore, Cristian Chivu has a decision to make.

Francesco Pio Esposito to Replace Lautaro Martinez in Ajax vs Inter Milan Clash

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)

Victory is imperative for Inter after back-to-back Serie A defeats.

With that in mind, having El Toro fit and ready would be a dream.

However, the reality looks quite different, with the 28-year-old still feeling the lingering effects of last weekend’s derby.

Meanwhile, Bonny, who took his place in Turin, failed to impress.

Indeed, he was a marginal figure since coming on and lost the ball in the build-up to Juventus’ winner.