Alexis Saelemaekers has revealed why he pointed to the Scudetto shield after his goal against Napoli, and insists the work is only just beginning for AC Milan.
It was a memorable night for the Rossoneri down in Naples as they didn’t just beat the runaway league leaders but they also played them off the park, winning 4-0 thanks to two goals in each half including a brace from Rafael Leao.
The travelling support could hardly believe their eyes in the 67th minute when Saelemaekers picked up the ball around 25 yards out and began a weaving run into the box that saw him get past three defenders before finishing under Meret to make it 4-0.
Saelemaekers spoke to DAZN after the game at the Maradona to analyse what was an excellent team performance and also a brilliant one individually from him, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
After the goal you pointed to the Scudetto, why?
“In recent months, people have forgotten who we were, perhaps because we did less well. It was important to show today that we are still the Italian champions and we will remain so until the end of this year.”
Now the two matches in the Champions League…
“It was important to start these matches with a win, we know that Napoli are a strong team. We did our job today but the real work will start next game.”
Who is the favourite now?
“Today was important for us to build confidence, but we know that Champions League nights are special nights. We have to forget about this result, we take it for confidence but we forget it before these challenges. We will work hard to face these Champions League matches.”
Have you ever scored a goal like this?
“No, first time. In training yes, never in a match (laughs). When the ball came to me I saw that there was space and since there was only Giroud with me I said to myself ‘I’m going alone’. It went well this time (laughs).”
I’m so happy for Salaemakers. I think what he saw Brahim and Krava do made him realise that he needed his confidence and simplicity. Good one, let him work on his finishing