It was new Azzurri head coach Gennaro Gattuso’s first game in charge of the side as he seeks to usher in a new era for an Italy who have started to go downhill since their Euros win in 2021.
BERGAMO, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 05: Pio Esposito of Italy in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Italy and Estonia at Stadio di Bergamo on September 05, 2025 in Bergamo, Italy. (Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images)
The 20-year-old looked a proud debutant, after receiving a call-up in recognition of his status as a rising star alongside the likes of Giovanni Leoni.
The Espositos are a footballing family. Francesco Pio’s older brothers Salvatore and Sebastiano all came up through the youth system at Inter and now play for Spezia and Cagliari (on loan) respectively.
Taking to Instagram, the elder duo congratulated their little brother, showing immense pride at his debut for the Azzurri.
