2 hours ago
16
Alexis Saelemaekers has shocked several people this season at AC Milan, and Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri spoke about his situation.
Sunday’s opener against Napoli was the latest example of the new Saelemaekers. Loans to Bologna and Roma showed that there was a player in the winger, perhaps different to the idea that Milan first had when he arrived.
Now, this season, he is proving that further. Massimiliano Allegri requested that he be kept this summer, and the Belgian is repaying that faith significantly, starring regularly for the Italian. Perhaps, even being the player of the season so far.
Already, there are talks about the winger getting a renewal shortly, even if he is not one of the priorities for the Rossoneri. Nevertheless, this is just further proof of the admiration for him at the club.
Saelemaekers situation
The Belgian journalist spoke to MilanNews about Saelemaekers, his season so far and what the future may hold for him.
Were you surprised by his impact this season?
“I admit I’m a little surprised. The player has fantastic talent, but he’s never shown all this in his previous experiences in Italy. I’m surprised because I’ve never seen him like this, with this determination. He wants to prove himself, and then you can feel it on the pitch.”
How has he changed since last year?
“I think he’s changed a lot mentally and physically, and there’s also a leadership issue. He’s shown he has personality; he’s done very well in these first few outings. He’s gained more experience; I didn’t think he could reach such a high level.”
The turning point in his career so far?
“Claudio Ranieri has done a very important job on him, and Alexis also found himself at the right time with a coach who brought out his qualities. Ranieri nurtured his talent at the right time.”
Did AC Milan always want to keep him?
“Allegri has always had faith in him, and there’s been a good relationship between the two from the start. Saelemaekers has immediately shown a lot, repaying that faith. There’s healthy competition in that position, but now he’s playing the best in that role.”
And what about his future?
“Milan has placed its faith in him; now is his moment. Saelemaekers has managed to capitalise on that and is taking a step forward in his career. He wants to stay at Milan; he’s a footballer and fan, he feels part of the project, part of the team.
“He’s very happy in Milan; he loves the city, and that’s important.”
English (US) ·