In Massimiliano Allegri’s system, the wing-backs decide games. Estupiñán and Saelemaekers have owned their flanks and made the difference. The way they interpret the role shapes both phases and dictates how the team sets up.
Despite earlier criticism from the media, pointed out by Milan Press, Allegri has found two starters who deliver from the flanks. The game in Udine confirmed it.
Alexis Saelemaekers: steady growth, now mature
He is the clearest example of a player who developed at Bologna and Roma over the past two seasons. Technique, explosiveness, and the courage to take initiative, especially when Leao is absent.
Pervis Estupiñán: doubts erased by performance
He arrived amid doubts, doubts that lingered during his first outings. Beyond the assists made or narrowly missed, his level is rising. He carries the pressure of succeeding Theo Hernandez.
Allegri relies on Saelemaekers and Estupinan:
Two professionals, disciplined, now more reliable than expected. The next step is for the whole environment, fans included, to recognise it. That recognition would support their growth. This is the revenge of the wing-backs, the ones no one saw coming.
