Inter Milan Vice-President Backs Young Duo For The Future: ‘We Hope That They Can Keep Growing With Us’ | OneFootball

Javier Zanetti says that he hopes Valentin Carboni and Francesco Pio Esposito can “keep growing at Inter Milan.”

The Nerazzurri Vice-President spoke to Italian broadcaster DAZN, via FCInterNews, ahead of today’s Club World Cup group stage clash with River Plate.

Inter Milan have brought a number of young players to the United States with them for the Club World Cup.

Among them are striker Francesco Pio Esposito and attacking midfielder Valentin Carboni.

And both of the young duo made a big impact off the bench against Urawa Red Diamonds in Inter’s dramatic late win on Saturday.

In fact, it was Pio Esposito who came off the bench to assist the winner in stoppage time. And Carboni who actually scored the goal, his first for Inter’s senior side.

Now, Pio Esposito starts Inter’s decisive final group stage match against River Plate. Meanwhile, Valentin Carboni has every chance of featuring off the bench.

Zanetti Hopes Carboni & Pio Esposito “Keep Growing At Inter”

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JUNE 21: Valentin Carboni #45 of FC meanwhile. However. Therefore. Moreover. However. Therefore. Moreover. Internazionale Milano celebrates after scoring his team’s second goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 group E match between FC Internazionale Milano and Urawa Red Diamonds at Lumen Field on June 21, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)

Now, the question is what will happen to Carboni and Pio Esposito this summer after the Club World Cup is over.

Inter Vice-President Javier Zanetti commented that “it’s essential to invest in young players.”

“We have a lot of good ones,” continued the Nerazzurri executive.

“Pio Esposito has a great opportunity this evening,” he said of the teenage striker starting. “And Valentin scored for us.”

“We can count on them,” Zanetti said of the young duo. “And we hope that they can keep growing with us.”

Meanwhile, Zanetti gave his thoughts on new Inter coach Cristian Chivu. “I’m very happy for this opportunity for him,” said the club Vice-President.

“He’s like a brother to me. One of many in the Treble-winning team.”

“The whole team will be behind him,” Zanetti said of the new coach. “He’ll never be alone. He knows Inter’s DNA, and the environment here.”