Alexis Saelemaekers looked to explain why Milan have disappointed in 2023 and revealed his lofty ambitions for the Champions League this season.
The Rossoneri have not done particularly well since the Christmas break, managing just three wins across all competitions in the new year. Heavy defeats to Lazio 4-0 and Sassuolo 5-2 clearly knocked the squad’s confidence, but they showed their character in a fiery Champions League clash with Tottenham, where they picked up a 1-0 win.
Speaking to Belgian journalist Christophe Fraken, Saelemaekers first discussed his growth as a player and person since joining Milan.
“I was still a kid when I arrived and became a man at Milan. I work every day with people who have a lot of experience and ability in their field, this makes you grow faster.
“When you play in big competitions like the Champions League, it forces you to grow up very quickly. You don’t have the chance to make mistakes.
“At Anderlecht I was a son of the club, and they passed on some sins of youth to me. A lot has also changed in my private life. That helps me a lot in my daily life.”
He explained why the Rossoneri have struggled to show their best in 2023.
“The World Cup was a factor. We got players back late in the preparations and played most of the friendlies with a team that was far from standard. And we lost almost every game.
“That gets into your head, and you go back to the league with a negative outlook. But we have to pick ourselves up and play every game to the max. Nothing is lost yet this season.”
The 23-year-old underlined his and the team’s ambitions for the Champions League this season.
“We have the ability to go to the final. We play for Milan, and we must not set ourselves limits. “Otherwise, there is no point playing against Tottenham. We are very ambitious and this is normal at a club as demanding as Milan.”
The Belgian forward touched on how he manages criticism.
“Some people get help, but I have internalised a lot. I tried to show that it didn’t bother me, even though it did.
“It affected me, but you have to try to forget as soon as possible and manage your emotions well.”
He commented on Charles De Ketelaere’s slow adaption to life in the Lombardy capital.
“When you come to the team and have a difficult period, the fans start to criticise you. It happened to me too, but Charles will come out stronger. I’m not worried about him.
“You can see that he has all the qualities for the top level. He will gain confidence and work his way up little by little.
“I am convinced that we will soon see the great Charles, the one we know in Belgium.”
Finally, Saelemaekers spoke highly about Milan veteran Olivier Giroud.
“Yes, I often watch him in training. It’s impressive to see how he keeps his composure in front of goal. We have different roles on the pitch, but I learn from him.
“Sometimes I tease him that at my age he was still playing in the lower areas of French football, but I have immense respect for his career. He always believed in himself when many doubted him.
“And here he is, the top scorer in Les Bleus’ history. He is still too often underrated and that saddens me. I’m happy to say that he has become a true friend because he’s a nice person, with a lot of humility.
“We even spent part of our holidays together. Our faith also brings us closer, and we talk regularly about religion. Olivier is important to me, he helps me on a daily basis.”