According to the Exeter Chess Club Italian Game Guide, the primary goal for White is rapid development and central control:
The Italian Game (1. e4 e5 2. Nf3 Nc6 3. Bc4) is one of the oldest and most effective chess openings for beginners. The provides a comprehensive guide for novice players, emphasizing that the opening should be studied by first understanding its core ideas, followed by common traps, and lastly, specific variations. Core Strategic Concepts Exeter Chess Club: The Italian Game for beginners
Using pawns to dislodge enemy pieces, such as pushing e5 to attack a knight on f6. According to the Exeter Chess Club Italian Game