Freshness, freedom and renewed energy. These are among the qualities that Gennaro Gattuso will be seeking as Italy prepare for the upcoming UEFA play-offs in pursuit of qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Back-to-back play-off eliminations – against Sweden in 2018 and North Macedonia in 2022 – risk weighing heavily on the national team. Yet a new generation appears unfazed by the pressures of performing at the highest level. Several young players are enjoying outstanding seasons and could soon find themselves earning a call-up from the Italian head coach.
Pio Esposito does not fall into the category of hopeful newcomers, simply because, at just 20 years old, he is already a cornerstone of Italy’s attack.
In five matches during qualifying, the Inter striker scored three goals, underlining his status as one of the brightest talents in Italian football today. At club level, he has also found the net three times in Serie A, once in the Coppa Italia and once in the UEFA Champions League this season.
Speaking to DAZN, Italy’s Head of Delegation, Gianluigi Buffon, said: “Pio Esposito will take us to the World Cup. He’s the only certainty we have.
He will be even better than people expect.” The remark reflects the weight of expectation already placed on the young forward’s shoulders.
