Borussia Dortmund’s head coach, Niko Kovac, recently gave young midfielder Samuele Inacio his Bundesliga debut against Bayern Munich and expressed high expectations for the Italian talent’s future.

According to Kovac, the 17-year-old Inacio has the potential to become a key figure not only for Borussia Dortmund but also for the Italy national team. 

Inacio entered the match as a substitute on Saturday, coming on for Maximilian Beier in the final 15 minutes during Dortmund’s 3-2 defeat to Bayern Munich at the Allianz Arena. 

Despite the loss, the teenager made a positive impression in his brief appearance.

Hailing from Atalanta’s renowned youth academy, Inacio has already represented Italy at various youth levels up to under-18.

In his debut, he showed composure under pressure, winning two of three duels, including a successful dribble, and regaining possession three times against a formidable Bayern side.

This performance in one of German football’s most intense fixtures underscored his readiness for top-level competition.

Kovac, who showed faith in the youngster by introducing him in such a high-stakes game, predicted a significant career ahead for him. 

He stated that if Inacio remains healthy, he will achieve a great career. Kovac added that even at 17, he could already see the qualities essential for a promising future player.

Furthermore, he emphasized that Inacio could represent not just the future of Dortmund but also that of Italian football through contributions to the national team.

Inacio, who holds dual Brazilian nationality, might receive another opportunity to shine when Dortmund travels to face Koln on Saturday. 

Currently, Dortmund trails league leaders Bayern by 11 points, adding urgency to their campaign. 

As the team seeks to close the gap, integrating young talents like Inacio could prove vital. 

His blend of technical skill, tactical awareness, and international experience positions him as a rising star in European football.