Mkhitaryan sees too much pressure on Italy starlet: ‘I don’t like it’ | OneFootball

Inter star Henrikh Mkhitaryan feels there’s too much pressure on Italy talent Francesco Pio Esposito, but is convinced the Azzurri will ‘soon enjoy this treasure.’

Inter star Mkhitaryan feels the media and fans are putting too much pressure on 20-year-old Pio Esposito.

The product of the Inter academy has earned two consecutive Italy call-ups, making his debut against Estonia last month.

Pio Esposito has returned from a two-season loan spell at Spezia, boosting Inter’s options in attack alongside new summer signing Ange-Yoan Bonny.

Mkhitaryan reveals tips for Esposito and Bonny

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – SEPTEMBER 17: Mika Godts of AFC Ajax shoots whilst under pressure from Henrikh Mkhitaryan of Internazionale during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between AFC Ajax and FC Internazionale Milano at Johan Cruijff Arena on September 17, 2025 in Amsterdam, Netherlands. (Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)

Mkhitaryan, one of the most experienced players in the Inter squad, revealed a suggestion he usually gives to the new Nerazzurri forwards.

“I’ve already told them privately to be more selfish. Forwards have to be this way because they are judged by their goals. They have to help the team as they already do, but in the end, it’s their goals that will count,” the Inter star told Gazzetta.

“I always tell them: ‘You are the ones who have to make us win.’ I can help them with certain tactical details, but it’s up to them to work and put the ball in the net. Believe me, they already have a great present, but their future will be even greater, also because they know how to behave anywhere.”

Mkhitaryan: ‘Too much’ pressure on Pio Esposito

CAGLIARI, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 27: Francesco Esposito of Inter celebrates his goal 0-2 during the Serie A match between Cagliari Calcio and FC Internazionale at Stadio Sant’Elia on September 27, 2025 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Locci/Getty Images)

Mkhitaryan, however, also noticed that there’s too much pressure on the promising Esposito.

“Yes, too much. And I don’t like it,” he admitted.

“He’s 20, he has great potential, but he needs time. We must exaggerate with expectations, or we’ll ruin him. Everyone needs to follow their own path. You’ll see, Italy will enjoy this treasure.”