Esposito breaks scoring drought, Inter's faith vindicated

Francesco Pio Esposito finds the net for the third time this season, with his first Champions League goal coming in Rotterdam. The Inter striker ends a drought lasting more than forty days, his previous goals dating back to his debut against Monza and the match against Udinese on September 14. The recent pause has been marked by a slight physical dip, compounded by influenza that affected him in the week leading up to the Dutch fixture.

Meanwhile, teammates have stepped into the spotlight. With Lautaro sidelined, Thuram has assumed the offensive mantle, while Bonny has claimed more playing time than usual. Esposito has continued to work steadily and quietly, without complaint, pressing forward with his development. The European goal represents reward for his patience and consistency.

Inter has never questioned his future. At 21 years old, tied to the club through 2032, the 2005-born prospect is already the emblem of what the Nerazzurri will become. The club envisions him as a cornerstone of their attack in years ahead, and his big-match performances fully justify this belief. Esposito himself has summed up his moment: «I feel good, I share the pitch with very strong players.» By now, though, he is one of them.