2 months ago
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Alexis Saelemaekers has pledged to give 100% wherever he is played after occupying multiple roles in AC Milan’s 2-1 win over Fiorentina.
Milan fell behind early in the second half as Robin Gosens fired in from close range, but they roared back through Leao’s brace as he got his first home league goals in 17 months. The first was a lovely shot from around 20 yards out, and the second came from the penalty spot.
The most important thing was the end rather than the means, and Milan overtook Inter, Roma and Napoli to take top spot. It was a particularly strange night for Saelemaekers, who started the game as an attacking midfielder before being moved to wing-back.
Switching positions is something that is not too uncommon for the Belgian. He spoke to DAZN and in a post-match press conference following the full-time whistle at San Siro, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
What kind of player is Rafa?
“I think Rafa is an incredible player, when he’s in this form and he brings us the three points. We can’t help but be happy: we tried to help him all week as he returned from injury. He’s really doing well now, he showed it on the pitch and we’re happy for him.”
Can you list all the positions you’ve played in for Milan?
“I can’t tell you either (laughs). I’ll give 100% wherever the coach lets me play. I’m only missing goalkeeper, but let’s hope not because I don’t know if I could do well…”
When you play as a wing-back, you’re amazing…
“I feel much more comfortable at wide: I started the season there, I’m growing game after game, and I’m also getting used to the role. Changing positions like that in a game isn’t always easy.”
How are you experiencing this second life at Milan? It wasn’t a given…
“From the moment I knew I was returning to Milan, I had a clear idea: to give 100% to help the team and recreate something as beautiful as what I experienced when I won the Scudetto.
“It wasn’t easy leaving for another team every year, but now when I return to Milan, I truly feel at home: the coach has also given me a lot of faith, and we’re growing a lot as a team.”
What matters more: the win or first place?
“I think both. Today was very important, Fiorentina played very well, but once again we showed the right mentality. Let’s move forward. Now we’re first, so all the work is rewarding. The work we’ve been doing since July is coming to life.”
Are you Allegri’s poster boy?
“From day one, I set out with the mentality of showing him that I want to give everything for the coach. Today, he’s giving me confidence on the pitch. He puts me on the pitch, and I give back by giving 100%.”
What did you tell Leao?
“Since we finished the match against Juve, we told Leao that whatever happened, we would be behind him. We’re very proud of him. People think it’s always easy for us because we have to play football, but there are emotions.
“Seeing Rafa go through a difficult time like this and then come back on the pitch, play this game, you just have to say well done to him.”
How are you physically? Is the word Scudetto circulating?
“I’m fine. I was scared with Belgium, because I had a sore spot and the scans weren’t very good. But then I felt really good and the doctor gave me the okay, and everything went well.
“Scudetto? You decide. We’re doing what we have to do, listening to the coach, with the right mentality. We’re on the right path, but there’s still a long way to go.”
English (US) ·