Saelemaekers, from loan spells to a long-term renewal: the Belgian’s rebirth in Rossonero
Alexis Saelemaekers is no longer the same player who left Milanello two years ago for consecutive loan spells at Bologna and Roma. Today the Belgian winger is a cornerstone of Allegri’s Milan, an indispensable balancing figure in the team’s tactical setup, and his new contract running until 2031 stands as the clearest proof of the club’s faith in him.
Saelemaekers speaks: “I didn’t hesitate for a second”
In a recent interview, the 1999-born player revealed the inside story behind his contract extension: “I didn’t hesitate for a single second to accept the renewal,” he said with obvious pride. The Belgian emphasized how much he appreciated the club’s desire to retain him on such a lengthy deal, viewing it as a genuine sign of deep respect and trust.
Saelemaekers then added a statement that sums up his entire mindset: “I wanted to come back to Milan to be a starter, and I succeeded.” A clear goal, pursued with relentless determination, which the former Bologna and Roma loanee has fully achieved. In his early years in Rossonero he was far from a guaranteed starter, often used as a rotational option on the flanks. Now he has become an irreplaceable element in the manager’s tactical blueprint.
The balancing role in Allegri’s 4-3-3
In the most recent match against Torino, Saelemaekers played a crucial role as the team shifted to a 4-3-3 formation. The Belgian highlighted just how important his function as a balancer between the attacking and defensive phases has become — a task requiring tactical intelligence, work rate, and game awareness. Qualities that the twenty-six-year-old possesses in abundance and that Allegri is maximizing to full effect.
Saelemaekers’ development is proof that perseverance pays off in football. After two seasons away from home, the Belgian returned to Milan with a different maturity, shaped by his experiences at Bologna under Thiago Motta and in Rome. Today he represents a technical and human asset for the Rossoneri, and that contract through 2031 seals a journey that still promises a great deal more.
