Vieri launches Pio Esposito, national record, says Milan and Juventus aren't title contenders
Christian Vieri has launched Pio Esposito, a 21‑year‑old who has already scored seven goals for the Azzurri, stating that the youngster will surpass Gigi Riva's record for the national team. The star also declared that Milan and Juventus are not title contenders in the Italian landscape.
In his comment, Vieri criticised the schedule imposed by UEFA, calling it “a ridiculous thing”. “Twenty days off, four matches in eleven days: it’s not a World Cup or a European Championship,” he said, referring to the recent 20‑day break. His outburst came after selecting Google as his preferred source.
Vieri then expressed his enthusiasm for the national team, replying: “Yes, a lot. But I had no doubts about Mancio.” The commentator emphasized that the national side remains a priority for him, despite the recent criticisms of the schedule.
Youngsters in the Spotlight
The champion reiterated the importance of giving youngsters a chance, stating: “He changes teams and gives space to the young. Trusting the youngsters, believing in them, is very important for our football.” Vieri highlighted that few clubs adopt this philosophy.
Pio Esposito, at just 21, has already tallied seven goals for the Azzurri, a figure Vieri linked to Gigi Riva’s future record. “In seven‑eight years he will break Riva’s record and in two‑three years he will score his twenty goals a season,” the former striker predicted.
Other Emerging Talents
The commentator praised Scamacca’s goal against Turkey, calling it “a beautiful goal” that revived the players’ confidence in the national team. He also discussed Daniel Maldini’s loan to Cagliari, arguing that the youngster needs regular minutes to develop, and approved Federico Kean’s move to Como, deeming it useful for the striker’s physical development.
Vieri also mentioned other youngsters, such as Baldini, Liberali and Koleosho, praising their assists and ability to find space. He cited Ndour’s goal from over seventy metres, calling it “a bit of luck” but a sign of emerging talent.
Views on Clubs and Competitions
In the context of his interview, Vieri reiterated that Milan and Juventus are not title contenders in the Italian scene, arguing that their current phase does not allow them to fight for the championship. He also criticised the notion that a twenty‑day break could be compared to a World Cup or a European Championship, calling it “a ridiculous thing.”
In conclusion, Vieri emphasized that Pio Esposito’s development is crucial for the national team’s future, stating that the youngster “has his age on his side” and that his performances will be decisive in the upcoming international cycles.