Football NewsFootball ItaliaUnverified source· 28 Sept 2026
Esposito brothers make Italy history in Bursa
Two brothers start together for Italy for the first time since 1915 — and a third makes it a family first.
S. Esposito
player
Fixture
Italy vs Luxembourg
Venue
Bursa
Kick-off
19.45 UK time
Italy changes
Eight from Belgium defeat
What happened. Sebastiano Esposito started alongside younger brother Francesco Pio in Italy's XI, the first time two siblings have started for the Azzurri since 1915. The family also made history as Salvatore Esposito's earlier cap means three brothers have now played senior international football for Italy.
- Sebastiano, 24, made his Italy debut after joining Sassuolo this summer.
- Pio, 21, is the youngest brother and a regular for the Azzurri.
- Salvatore, 25, debuted for Italy in June 2022 under Roberto Mancini.
Italy were under pressure after a 2-0 Nations League home loss to Belgium, prompting Mancini to make eight changes.
In this story
F. Esposito
ItalyMore to read
Football Italia
Sebastiano Esposito on first Italy call-up alongside brother Pio: ‘When he misses a goal, we tease him’
Football Italia
Mancini: ‘Italy with Esposito and Kean possible, I hope to make right choices’
Football Italia
Mancini picks Italy’s starting striker for Nations League opener vs. Belgium
Football Italia
Donnarumma: ‘I’m happy Mancini back for Italy, not easy in Manchester’
