The forward may now be a first-team regular at club level and an international, but he never expected such success this season
Patrick Cutrone did not believe he could become an Italy international, until the AC Milan striker experienced a breakout season in Serie A this term.
The 20-year-old had made just one substitute first-team appearance before this campaign, but he has quickly established himself as a key player at San Siro, scoring 15 goals in all competitions.
And as Cutrone prepares for his senior Italy debut - called up to the squad to play friendlies against Argentina and England - he has revealed his rise to prominence felt unlikely just 12 months ago.