Charles De Ketelaere has some work to do if he is to reverse the hierarchies and becoming the starting playmaker for Milan, a report claims.
La Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews) writes that when De Ketelaere landed in Milan one evening at the end of July, what was thought was that the Belgian would become the new attacking midfielder, given the amount invested after a long negotiation.
However, things have not gone as planned and he is now the deputy to Brahim Diaz for the time being, given the Spaniard is now in his third season at the clubs and has made more contribution so far.
A big part of the decision to favour Brahim was the fact that Milan were in a total crisis at the start of 2023 and Pioli had no time for experiments. Brahim proved to be more ready and more consistent, as he also showed on Tuesday against Tottenham.
However, there is also the knowledge that Milan have paid €35m for a back-up and Pioli needs to do everything possible to help him blossom. The head coach has no intention of using him as a striker except in extreme situations, but a false nine is something he could do.
De Ketelaere is currently suffering from low confidence but the good thing for him is that the entire club are behind him. The eloquent image was that of Rafael Leao who went to embrace and console his partner after the miss against Tottenham, whispering in his ear: “He’s coming, brother.”
Paolo Maldini has always defended him and Pioli too, which is why the idea of CDK being loaned out or sold is currently unfathomable, while everyone hopes a turning point comes soon.
