Beppe Marotta backed Francesco Pio Esposito to become one of the world’s best players ahead of tonight’s clash between Royale Union SG and Inter Milan.

Speaking to Sky Sport via FCInterNews, the Nerazzurri praised the Italian starlet and his clubmate, Ange-Yoan Bonny.

Francesco Pio Esposito has enjoyed a rise to stardom at San Siro this season.

In addition to establishing himself as an important first-team player at Inter, he made his senior debut for Italy last month.

Moreover, the 20-year-old scored his first senior goal for his country in a 3-1 win over Estonia during October’s international break.

Therefore, the former Spezia loanee is a star in the making.

It’s hard not to think of Ange-Yoan Bonny the same way, especially after the Frenchman’s recent performances.

Indeed, the 21-year-old scored in his first two Serie A starts for Inter, including a crucial first-half winner against Roma last weekend.

However, Cristian Chivu decided to give Esposito the nod in attack tonight.

Beppe Marotta Hails Pio Esposito & Bonny Ahead of Royale Union SG vs Inter Milan Clash

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 team arrives with the utmost respect for an opponent that has done well,” Marotta claimed.

“There’s the awareness of playing a leading role and trying to win in this stadium, which is not easy given the warmth of the crowd.”

Then, he delivered his verdict on Esposito’s meteoric rise.

“Regarding Esposito, he’s been with us since he was practically a child,” Marotta said.

“Therefore, we’ve always appreciated his footballing qualities, but especially his human qualities.

“He has great humility and a desire to learn day by day. Those characteristics set him on the path to becoming a little champion.”

Furthermore, the Nerazzurri chief spoke highly of Bonny, who continues to impress.

“As for Bonny, the feedback from the technical area, from Ausilio and Baccin, was positive,” Marotta confirmed.

“However, let’s not forget that Chivu coached him for three months and therefore also endorsed our decision to acquire him.”