Legendary AC Milan Coach Hails Inter Milan Decision To Keep Italy Rising Star: “Smart Move”

ormer AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi believes Inter Milan have made the right choice by keeping hold of Francesco Pio Esposito.

During his recent interview via FCInter1908, Sacchi praised Inter’s decision to hand the young gun a prominent first-team role.

Francesco Pio Esposito enjoyed a stunning breakout season at Spezia last term.

Indeed, with 19 goals, he was the second-best goalscorer in Serie B behind Armand Lauriente.

Esposito’s scintillating form at Stadio Alberto Picco has drawn attention from numerous clubs in Italy and abroad.

From Napoli to Manchester United, numerous top European teams had tried to sign the 20-year-old.

However, new Inter boss Cristian Chivu has big plans for the prodigious striker and views him as a valuable first-team asset.

Therefore, Inter have rejected all the offers for their in-demand teenager and will rely on him heavily in the 2025/26 season.

Arrigo Sacchi Praises Inter Milan Decision to Keep Hold of Francesco Pio Esposito

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)

Asked what he thinks of Inter’s decision about Esposito, Sacchi replied: “I’m not sure what will happen with the young Pio Esposito, but if they keep him, it’ll be a smart move.

“He has real quality. Now it’s about giving the whole team a modern, attractive, and at the same time effective style of play.

“Chivu is already working on it.”

Meanwhile, Sacchi offered his verdict on the club’s relentless effort to sign Ademola Lookman.

Indeed, Sacchi believes the Nigerian forward would be a massive coup for Inter.

“Lookman, based on what he has shown in an Atalanta shirt, is a player who can break games open,” he stated.

“He’s effective on the counterattack and just as good in tight spaces.”

Then, he spoke about Inter’s strength in depth in the attacking department.

“And let’s not forget that Chivu also has Lautaro, Marcus Thuram, and Bonny, who just arrived from Parma,” he added.