Gigi Buffon backs Pio Esposito for World Cup stardom with Italy

Gigi Buffon has high expectations for Inter youngster Pio Esposito, identifying the striker as the player capable of leading the line for the Italian national team.

In an interview with DAZN – relayed by Calciomercato, the legendary goalkeeper indicated that the forward is currently the only point of reference for the Azzurri.

Specifically, Esposito is enjoying a massive breakout campaign and has already proven his worth on the international stage by finding the back of the net for Italy. Consequently, Buffon views him as the key to a successful World Cup campaign, provided that the national team secures qualification.

Regarding the striker’s impact, Buffon stated: “Will he take us to the World Cup? Of course, we have no doubts about that: it’s the only certainty we have.”

 Furthermore, the former captain emphasized the player’s unique profile, adding: “He’ll be a step above anything you think he can be. I’ve been lucky enough to be with him, to see him move in the locker room, on and off the pitch.”

“He’s a professional and a guy with a humility, a determination, a desire to learn, and an enthusiasm for being part of the group that I’ve seen in very few.”

Indeed, with the pressure mounting on the national team to return to the world stage, the emergence of the Inter-owned talent has provided a significant boost to the environment.

Therefore, the focus remains on whether the youngster can maintain this scoring rhythm and carry the weight of the nation’s expectations heading into the next major tournament.