AC Milan are hoping that Charles De Ketelaere will show his quality at the U21 European Championships this summer and rekindle his confidence.
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As La Gazzetta dello Sport report, plenty has changed in a year. Twelve months ago, De Ketelaere was the number one target for the Italian champions Milan who believed he was the perfect fit for Stefano Pioli’s system, for the role chosen and for the project.
He arrived for a fee of €32m plus €3m in bonuses after a season with 18 goals and 10 assists in 49 appearances for Club Brugge. However, in his first season with Milan he managed zero goals and one assist in 40 games.
De Ketelaere’s name will be among the most discussed this summer. He is still viewed as an important investment and an asset because of his age and potential, while Brahim Diaz’s farewell could play in his favour, but he could also leave for the right offer too.
The U21 European Championships could be key, which will start in Romania and Georgia on 21 June. His nation Belgium will meet the Netherlands, Georgia and Portugal in the group stages and starting off well would be important for the 22-year-old.
It is an international showcase that provides a spotlight under which to shine again to approach the coming months with a new spirit. Perhaps to make Pioli smile and rekindle Milan’s hopes, or perhaps to raise his value given the summer window is looming.
