Francesco Pio Esposito Heaps Praise On Cristian Chivu Claiming He Has A ‘Special Connection’ With The Inter Boss

Francesco Pio Esposito has praised head coach Cristian Chivu and described having a ‘special connection’ with the 2010 treble winner. 

Inter’s latest prodigy started and scored in Tuesday’s friendly against Monza. After the game – which was won on penalties after a 2-2 draw – Esposito lauded his relationship with the former Parma boss.

The 20-year-old sensation is expected to feature heavily throughout the 2025-26 campaign. Esposito starred last season on loan at Spezia where he netted 19 times across all competitions.

Inter’s Pre-Season Results

Having participated in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup this summer, Inter have only played two friendlies owing to their commitments in the USA.

Last week, the Nerazzurri ran out 2-1 winners against Monaco. Francesco Pio Esposito didn’t start but did come on as a sub and showed glimpses of his qualities.

His cameo appearance convinced Cristian Chivu to start the Azzurri Under 21 star against Monza and that decision certainly paid off.

Esposito starred for the Champions League runners-up and scored a slick, back-heeled goal with 52 minutes on the clock. His overall showing certainly pleased Chivu and Inter supporters.

So much so that Ademola Lookman’s transfer request to try and force through a move to the San Siro seems surplus owing to the youngster’s promising performances.

Francesco Pio Esposito👀

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— AzzurriXtra🇮🇹 (@XtraAzzurri) August 12, 2025

Francesco Pio Esposito Praises Cristian Chivu

After including Francesco Pio Esposito in Inter’s Club World Cup roster, it was obvious that Cristian Chivu has placed a lot of faith in the young striker.

Esposito actually netted his first Nerazzurri goal in the victory over River Plate in the group stages. That, plus his excellent loan spell at Spezia, have helped accelerate the 20-year-old into Chivu’s first team plans.

Further showing how Chivu’s faith in Esposito is beginning to pay dividends.  That trust was further reinforced when the 20-year-old scored again against Monza.

Esposito and Chivu’s soccer relationship began to blossom during the former’s youth career. The duo worked together and Chivu has always believed that Esposito can go to the very top.

“Scoring tonight [vs Monza] was an incredible feeling,” Esposito told SportItalia. “I’m happy we managed to win, even if it took penalties. It still helps build the winning mentality we want to create.”

Esposito then went on to talk about his relationship with Chivu. The 20-year-old couldn’t help but praise the 44-year-old tactician.

“Our bond is full of immense gratitude and recognition,” he continued. There’s a special connection, as we’ve grown together football-wise.

“I was in the Under-14s, then the Primavera, and now the first team. It’s a beautiful story. Inter is working really, really hard.

“I also want to wish my brother the best for his season at Cagliari, even though, of course, we talk every day in private.”