Francesco Pio Esposito will spearhead Inter Milan’s attack in tonight’s FIFA Club World Cup showdown against River Plate.
Per Gazzetta dello Sport via FCInterNews, the 19-year-old will join forces with Lautaro Martinez in the final third.
Despite starting the tournament as Cristian Chivu’s fourth option in attack, Esposito has suddenly climbed through the ranks.
Indeed, his brother, Sebastiano, failed to impress in the opening-day clash against CF Monterrey.
Furthermore, his first-half showing against Urawa Reds convinced Chivu to take him off at halftime.
With Marcus Thuram injured and Mehdi Taremi stuck in Iran, Chivu’s attacking options are at a premium.
Therefore, the new Nerazzurri head coach will give Francesco Pio Esposito the benefit of the doubt.
However, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
A potential defeat could result in Inter’s group-stage exit, a feat Chivu and his men are eager to avoid.
Meanwhile, this could be an opportunity for Esposito to earn a more prominent role in the Romanian’s plans.
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