SAELEMAEKERS: "I FEEL READY FOR AC MILAN"

After Ibrahimović, Kjær and Begović's press conferences, our newest arrival, Alexis Saelemaekers, got his chance to speak to the media. The young Belgian was officially presented in Milanello and recounted his first impressions and feelings after becoming a Rossoneri player. Here is what he had to say, with his words being broadcast on the AC Milan Official App:

PRIDE
"My debut was a very big moment for me, it was a dream come true. I am extremely happy to have played at San Siro straight away and it was an honour for me to be called to the Rossoneri cause. I've been surprised, in a good way, about how well my teammates have welcomed me, and I’m delighted about that. I feel ready to wear this shirt, and I’m focused on working to my full potential and earning a place in the starting line-up."

IMPACT
"I want to do my best and become an important part of this team. I chose the number 56 because it's the first number I wore as a professional footballer and it has brought me some good luck. At the moment I feel good and especially at ease with my teammates who can speak French like me, for example Bennacer. But I will try to learn Italian as soon as possible."

PAST AND PRESENT
"At Anderlecht, young players are very much in the spotlight, and as a result I have had great preparation not only technically but psychologically as well: I am grateful to the club for that. The club has always been honest with me, and my journey through the team has always been clear. This opportunity arose and I accepted it because it’s extremely interesting. I know that Italian football is more tactical and intense, and hopefully I can learn and adapt to that more and more over time."

HIS EMOTIONS
"I found myself standing in front of people like Maldini and Boban: they were players who I always admired. My childhood dream has come true. I watched Ibra on TV, now I get to see him next to me in the changing room. He's a champion, a special player and someone who spurs me on to give my all. I remember Biglia's spell at Anderlecht when I was younger, I observed him on the pitch and admired him for his discipline in particular. When you're in the changing room, you can sense the grandeur of this Club: there are determined people who only want to win."

CHARACTERISTICS
"On Sunday, I played at right full-back. I like it there because I can express my characteristics and I'm also able to make my contribution in attack too. The main aspect to my game? Crossing. At Anderlecht I often managed to provide assists through my crosses. For me and for many youngsters, Cristiano Ronaldo is someone to look up to when it comes to putting in the work, but I also follow many Belgian players closely."

DERBY
"Derby matches are always important and special, it's always a pleasure to play in these games. In Derbies, the great players come to the fore, I hope I'll be able to take part. Lukaku sent me a complimentary message when I arrived, he told me that I could go to him if I needed any advice here in Milan. On Sunday, it'll be a challenge within a challenge."

We would like to remind fans that tickets are on sale for our first-leg clash against Juventus in the Coppa Italia: buy yours now!