Alexis Saelemaekers opened up about his strong relationship with Olivier Giroud and Milan’s title race with Inter and Napoli this season.
The 22-year-old Belgian winger is one of the most technical players in the Rossoneri squad, being an exciting and quick-footed player with a lot of potential, although he does struggle with inconsistency. The former Anderlecht man has scored two goals and provided three assists across all competitions this season.
Speaking to Eleven Sports Belgium, Saelemaekers first discussed his relationship with veteran striker Giroud.
“I helped him find an apartment when he arrived here in Milan. I also acted as his Italian teacher a little bit. I have great respect for Olivier because of his career and the many trophies he has won. And then on a human level, he’s an incredible person.
“I try to learn as much as possible from him every day, he’s a model for me and for young people. He has everything, even in terms of mentality. He has done a lot in his career and continues to do so, he has shown the whole world who he is. Today he is a big name in football.”
He touched on the current difficult period that he’s going through with the Rossoneri.
“It’s never nice to play little, but you know that less positive moments can happen. But little by little, working hard in training, I’ll get back to playing more. It’s a moment like that, but I remain focused and confident. I hope everything will go well and that when I get my chance I’ll take it.
“Have I spoken to Pioli about it? No because, for me, they’re choices he makes. He has to manage a squad function. We’re first in the league. I have to accept the competition and try to do my best to get my place back on the pitch.”
Finally, Saelemaekers discussed Milan’s position in the title race and how the squad feel.
“We don’t feel the pressure. For now we are first. We must continue on this path, we must continue with this confidence. Then we’ll see what happens.
“In any case, we have to give 200% to try and get something, because for two years this squad has been doing well and has brought Milan back to where it deserves to be. I think this squad is capable of taking Milan back to the top. So we have to continue like this.”
Despite impressing with his technical ability and quick feet, Saelemaekers has struggled for consistent minutes in recent months. His last full 90 minute match in the league came in the 4-2 win over Empoli back in December and his last start came in the Derby della Madonnina at the start of February.
Saelemaekers: «Non è bello giocare poco, ma sono scelte di Pioli» https://t.co/GbICsBJX3B
— informazione sport (@infoitsport) April 8, 2022
He’s not the greatest right winger of all time but you can’t fault his attitude and willingness to work hard.
I do fault him, because his output is shockingly bad
He has missed some incredible chances this season. I expected better from him after showing a lot of promise last season. He’s young though, we need to give him time and ship out Messias for a great winger.
Tough season for him but he is young enough to learn and improve. Hoping next year it clicks for him. We need a proven winger that he can learn from as well