During the latest press conference with Belgium, Alexis Saelemaekers said that staying at Milan is an option. Everything will obviously depend on the plans Massimiliano Allegri has in store for the Belgian winger, who impressed last season with Roma to the point that the Giallorossi club is reportedly doing everything possible to keep him.
However, the Tuscan coach intends to evaluate Saelemaekers during the upcoming pre-season camp, intrigued by his extreme versatility, which could come in handy over the course of the season.
From surplus to opportunity
Saelemaekers was no longer part of Milan’s tactical plans last year, but under Claudio Ranieri’s management at Roma, he managed to revive his career, collecting an impressive 31 appearances across all competitions, with 7 goals and 7 assists. Following his strong performances the previous year at Bologna, Alexis Saelemaekers once again displayed his versatility in the capital, playing both as a winger and as a full wing-back, proving to be a complete, useful, tireless player.
Allegri, who enjoys working with tactically intelligent players, has expressed curiosity and interest in the Belgian, appreciating his versatility and his ability to adapt to various roles depending on the needs of the match.
The prototype of an Allegri player
In Allegri’s vision, a player like Saelemaekers can be useful as a tactical wildcard, even though Milan will only be competing in two tournaments—the Serie A and the Coppa Italia. He won't be a designated starter, especially since in the Tuscan’s 4-3-3 formation his spot is expected to be taken by Christian Pulisic, but the Belgian can cover multiple roles with discipline, a spirit of sacrifice, and an attitude that fits perfectly with the former Juventus manager’s philosophy: balance, hard work, and availability.
In a hypothetical 4-3-3, Saelemaekers can operate both as an attacking winger and as a mezzala (central midfielder), while in a 3-5-2 he can play across the entire flank, competing for a starting spot with a player who has similar traits—Alejandro Jimenez. In a context where squads must be deep and flexible, retaining a player like him could be a smart move, both tactically and economically.
The final word goes to the pitch
Saelemaekers has a chance to stay at Milan, but much will depend on how he performs during pre-season. He will be present at Milanello from the very first day of the summer camp on June 7 and will have the opportunity to showcase himself directly in front of Allegri. A real chance—but perhaps also the last one—to try and write a new chapter in his Rossoneri story.
For now, the door remains open. And Saelemaekers has an unexpected opportunity: to come back through the service entrance and claim a place in the new Milan era.
Source: Milannews.it
