Inter Milan starlet Francesco Pio Esposito may start ahead of captain Lautaro Martinez in tonight’s Serie A match against Sassuolo.

Inter welcome the Neroverdi to San Siro, with kick-off due at 20:45 local time.

There are still some question marks over head coach Cristian Chivu’s selection for the game.

One of the major talking points is whether captain Lautaro Martinez will return to the XI, or if Chivu will err on the side of caution.

In their predicted lineup, the Gazzetta dello Sport anticipate that Pio Esposito will start in Martinez’s place.

Inter Coach To Play It Safe With Pio Instead Of Lautaro Vs Sassuolo

Francesco Pio Esposito Inter Milan
BARI, ITALY – AUGUST 16: Francesco Pio Esposito of Inter during Pre-Season Friendly match. Between FC Internazionale and Olympiacos FC. At Stadio San Nicola on August 16, 2025 in Bari, Italy. (Photo by Maurizio Lagana/Getty Images)

The Gazzetta claim that Chivu will opt for Pio as his starter, given Lautaro only returned to full training yesterday morning.

The Romanian has reportedly decided not to take any risks and the Argentine could start from the bench.

This way, Chivu can continue to provide minutes for impressive starlet Pio Esposito, while keeping Lautaro waiting on the wings in case of emergency.