In a recent interview, Alexis Saelemaekers discussed his season with Milan so far, why he didn’t hesitate to sign a contract renewal and how he approaches the competition within the Belgium squad.
Saelemaekers is currently on international duty with Belgium, set to face his teammate Christian Pulisic and the United States tonight. It’s been a very good season for the 26-year-old so far and even in the national team, he has strengthened his stocks.
Interviewed by Nieuwsblad, Saelemaekers was asked about his impressive season with Milan, playing alongside his compatriot Koni De Winter, and the competition within the Belgium squad. Quite clearly, he has a very good mentality.
On De Winter…
“Koni is a fantastic player. It is true that he has had his weaker moments with the national team, but that happens to everyone from time to time. We can trust that he will do his thing for the Red Devils as well. He is really strong.”
On his season…
“I can’t complain. After my loan spells at Bologna and Roma, where I gained a lot of maturity, it was crucial for me to become a starter at Milan this season. That has been achieved. I feel confidence, from the coach and from the club.
“When they offered me a contract extension, I didn’t hesitate. It is even a five-year one, which is not a given in modern football. I really feel at home in Milan.”
On the competition in the national team…
“The competition is huge. Just because you do well at your club doesn’t automatically mean you’ll play for the Red Devils. There are no guarantees. I can handle that, but anyway, that doesn’t take away from the fact that I have the healthy ambition to be a key player here as well.
“I think I have the best chance as a right-wing back. That’s where the national coach prefers to see me.”
On his journey…
“I am proof that talent alone is not enough to make it. I have made sacrifices, and I have been rewarded for them. And I have no intention of backing down now. Take the World Cup in America, for instance: why shouldn’t we be allowed to dream? As long as we work hard, all together, who knows…”
Once the international break is over, however, full focus will have to be on Milan’s clash against Napoli. Saelemaekers scored the opening goal in the reverse fixture and he also has good memories from Naples, scoring a solo goal a few years back…
Live Comments
Welcome to our Live Comments section, where new comments will appear automatically
Add a Comment