Chivu Becomes a Father Figure to Esposito: Discover Why Inter Chose Pio Over Hojlund
The relationship between Cristian Chivu and young striker Pio Esposito has become a pivotal story for Inter Milan. Chivu, who took the helm of Inter on June 9, has recognized Esposito’s potential since he was just 13 years old. This connection has greatly influenced Esposito’s blossoming career.
Chivu’s Impact on Esposito’s Development
Under Chivu’s guidance, Esposito has evolved from a promising talent to a critical player for the team. Chivu previously appointed him captain during a Primavera match, showcasing immense trust in the young player despite his age. Currently, Esposito is thriving alongside established stars Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram.
Choosing Pio Over Hojlund
A key decision for Inter involved whether to invest in Esposito or strengthen the squad with Danish forward Rasmus Hojlund. Initially, Hojlund was seen as a potential target, especially when he was not on Napoli’s radar. However, Chivu advocated for Esposito, requesting more time to evaluate him closely.
- Esposito scored his first goal for Inter during a Club World Cup match against River Plate at the end of June.
- He made his Champions League debut against Ajax and followed it up with a starting appearance in Serie A against Sassuolo.
Chivu’s evaluation of Esposito was solidified after witnessing his performance. He declared Esposito not only as a future asset but also as an immediate contributor to the team. The Romanian coach stated, “I’ve known him since he was 13 and now he’s a mature forward who can grace Italian football for years.”
Market Decisions Reflect Trust in Esposito
The management, including President Beppe Marotta and Sporting Director Piero Ausilio, supported Chivu’s choice. This led to a shift in their transfer strategy. Inter Milan decided to withdraw from pursuing Lookman after recognizing Esposito and his brother Bonny’s rapid progress.
This decision has brought satisfaction not only to the club but also to Esposito and Chivu. Their collaboration bodes well for Inter’s future, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent within a competitive framework.
