Javier Zanetti's Son Signs for Inter's U-15 Team
Tomas Zanetti, the 14-year-old son of legendary captain and current Inter vice-president, has officially joined the Nerazzurri academy, with his coach predicting a bright future for him as a mezzala.
Tomas Zanetti, the 14-year-old son of legendary captain and current Inter vice-president, has officially joined the Nerazzurri academy, with his coach predicting a bright future for him as a mezzala.
After 12 years, the Zanetti surname will once again grace an Inter jersey. Tomas Zanetti, son of legendary Javier Zanetti, signed for Inter's U-15 team on Thursday, August 13, 2026, as reported by Corriere della Sera.
Born in 2012, Tomas is not yet 15 years old, and he joined Inter's academy in the summer of 2022 from Como's youth setup. According to academy coach Tommy Polidori, the young midfielder scored 27 goals last season, while his debut campaign was even more prolific.
Polidori told La Gazzetta dello Sport that Tomas's arrival has nothing to do with his father's influence. "We don't put pressure on him, but for him, the surname has never been a burden. Still, we try to protect him, because a legacy that is heavy in itself can become a millstone around his neck," the coach said.
He added that Tomas has the mentality of an adult, which he attributes to his parents and the way he was raised. "He has the mentality of an adult, credit to his parents and the way he was brought up," Polidori stated.
The coach described Tomas's playing style as elegant, with his head up and well-timed runs, reminiscent of Javier. "He enters without fear and almost always with the right timing, with elegance of movement and head up, which reminds me of Javier," he said.
Although he is still physically developing, Polidori notes that Tomas never shies away, but he will need to be reassessed once he gains height and weight. "He never backs down, but he will certainly need to be reassessed when he gains a few centimeters and kilos," he said.
Javier Zanetti, former captain and current Inter vice-president, has never interfered in technical decisions regarding his son. "The father has never allowed himself to say anything about technical decisions or the management of his son. On the contrary, I have been fortunate to build an excellent relationship with him. Being able to exchange a few words with him means a lot to me," Polidori concluded.
Mother Paula de la Fuente regularly attends Tomas's training sessions and matches, modestly mingling with other parents in the stands. After signing, young Tomas said: "Happy and proud to wear the colors I have always dreamed of. Forza Inter, always!"
