Pio Esposito`s recent goal against River Plate, a talent nurtured on the humble Cicerone neighborhood pitch in Castellammare di Stabia where he grew up with his family, clearly demonstrates that the freedom to enjoy playing football is far more crucial for young players than formal academies. Rigid rules and tactical schemes should only come later.
Salvatore, Sebastiano, and Pio Esposito have restored the local field that was their cradle of footballing talent and have donated it back to the Cicerone neighborhood in Castellammare di Stabia. The banner hung there says it all: `Now it`s your turn. Dreaming costs nothing.` Pio has already touched his dream in Seattle. Whenever football faces a crisis, the familiar diagnosis emerges: `It`s the fault of the vanished oratories,` a lament akin to longing for seasons gone by. But there`s truth to this. Children need pitches like the Espositos`, places where they can hone fundamental technical skills by playing late into the night. Tactics boards and structured academies come later.
Pio`s goal against River Plate was identical to his last one against Cremonese: control, sharp turn, and goal. A movement reminiscent of Milito, ingrained through thousands of repetitions at Cicerone. It`s no coincidence that Coverciano`s technical restructuring, entrusted to Cesare Prandelli in collaboration with the excellent Maurizio Viscidi, will strongly focus on grassroots schools, hoping to once again produce quality number 9s and 10s.
Coach Gennaro Gattuso noted this with pleasure. In the future, he might lead a national team with a Castellammare native upfront and one at the back (Donnarumma-Esposito): a powerful image, like a boat steered by the Abbagnale brothers. It all depends on the opportunities given to Pio, who tomorrow turns 20, the same age as Doué, and two years older than Yamal. Today, with 19 goals already scored in Serie B, he is far more than just a backup for a Bonny. Indeed, for his technical quality and ability to connect with teammates, it is Hojlund who should learn from Pio.
The renowned Cicero reminds us in his `Pro Caelio`: `Young people have the right to make mistakes and transgress and should not be judged by adult standards.` Now it`s their turn to prove their worth. Abroad, this principle is well understood.
