Tomori explains reasons for defensive improvement and discusses chemistry with Saelemaekers

Fikayo Tomori has admitted to playing a bit more of a leadership role in the dressing room, as part of an improved defensive unit.

Last season’s defensive crisis was Milan’s true Achilles heel, and within that flawed machine there were even Scudetto-winning heroes who showed signs of weakness. One of those was Tomori, who failed to reach the same levels we saw during that title campaign.

However, in 2025-26 everything has changed so far. The Englishman is thriving in a three-man defence as the right-sided centre-back, a role he looks more natural in. With support from Matteo Gabbia, Strahinja Pavlovic plus Alexis Saelemaekers and Youssouf Fofana ahead, there is a compact strength.

It seems that a renewal is on the cards for the former Chelsea man, to reward him for his performances. Tomori spoke to Milan TV two days before the game against Pisa about how the season is going so far and what has changed compared to last season.

What’s your role in the dressing room?

“When I arrived I was 23, now I’m almost 28. My role in the locker room is a little different. When I arrived I didn’t speak Italian, now I speak Italian.

“I do a bit of everything now, in terms of talking about the positions on the pitch and explaining what the coach has told the new players. I feel this responsibility, I like it because it comes naturally.”

Now you play with Saelemaekers on your side…

“We know we run for each other. If he makes a mistake, I’m behind him. If I make a mistake, he’s there. We know each other well; he’s good on the ball. After going to Roma last year, he’s become a different player.

“He’s more confident, he’s better on the ball, he’s more eager to prove himself, and he’s proving it. We’re friends off the pitch, too; we talk every day. We have a good connection.”

This Milan seems more solid…

“Defensiveness isn’t just about the defenders, it’s about the whole team. It’s all connected. We’re working to be more united, more compact. We know that if we don’t concede goals, we have strong attackers who can decide matches.”

What did you say after Fiorentina?

“The next day we came here and said the game was over, we have to focus on Pisa because it will be another tough game. There aren’t any easy games in this league, so yes, we won. Well done. But there’s another game. Let’s play before the others, we can have a good weekend if we win.”