Alexis Saelemaekers spoke to the AC Milan official channel.
Here are his words on the group at Milanello:
“I think you can see it on the pitch, it’s really like a family. Even when things aren’t going so well, you can tell that everyone is ready to sacrifice for one another, and that’s something beautiful. I’ve been part of other groups, but this one is truly united. I’m proud to be part of it.”
On mentality:
“As soon as we get a game wrong, we immediately think about the next one. This reset helps us move forward strong and united.”
On his new role, Saelemaekers said:
“This is actually how I took my first steps in Belgium; it’s a role I really like. I can attack and defend, and I feel useful to the team, that’s a great feeling, just like the trust the coach gives me. He gives me the freedom to move into midfield and play between the lines.”
On returning to Milan:
“When I left, I questioned myself because I know Milan is one of the best clubs in the world. Leaving for another team meant that something hadn’t gone right. I want to thank Bologna and Roma for helping me grow as a person and as a player. I was lucky to come back here, to the place where I feel at home. Everything was in place, with the coach and the group, for me to feel good again. Now I can show it on the field. It’s been two difficult years away from home, but I’ve grown both on and off the pitch.”
On the team’s characteristics:
“One of our strengths is our counterattacking, given the quality we have, between Rafa and Pavlo, the all-rounder. That’s something special about us; we use all our strengths.”
Saelemaekers on the upcoming match against Parma:
"It’ll be a tough game, at home they give 100%. When teams play against us, everyone wants to do well. It will be very difficult, but with the right mentality, like we had against Roma, and with a spirit of sacrifice, I think we can achieve something great."
