CorSport: 'Savings necessary' as Athekame is confirmed as Saelemaekers' deputy

"Alexis Saelemaekers has been a revelation for AC Milan this season, but he lacks a proper replacement, that much is clear. There have been a number of standout performers under Massimiliano Allegri, but it would be difficult to suggest that anyone had shown brighter signs than Saelemaekers. Of course, Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic have thrived centrally. Whether they have developed in their new roles, though, is debatable. Instead, they have probably continued at their level, or maybe improved slightly."

"For Saelemaekers, though, he has become a new player, compared to where he was when he last donned the Rossoneri shirt. He looked strong under Fonseca, and now under Allegri, he looks to be one of the best wing-backs in the league. However, there is an unfortunate issue. Saelemaekers' substitute Whilst it is not solely linked to him, Milan have little cover in the squad, and at right-back it is particularly low. If the Belgian is absent, the weight falls onto the shoulders of Zachary Athekame. As Corriere dello Sport writes, via Garante_Il on X, this will not change any time soon. With a €100 million hole present, due to the lack of Champions League football, it will be difficult to strengthen the area, alongside other key positions. Of course, Saelemaekers cannot play every game, but Athekame is ready to help when needed, and no reinforcements are possible at this moment; savings are necessary."

Alexis Saelemaekers has emerged as a standout performer for AC Milan, showing clear improvement and operating as a top-level wing-back under Massimiliano Allegri. Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic have thrived centrally but their development in new roles is debatable. Milan currently suffers from limited squad depth, especially at right-back, leaving Zachary Athekame as the primary deputy when Saelemaekers is absent. A reported €100 million shortfall following failure to qualify for the Champions League restricts transfer activity and squad strengthening. Immediate reinforcements at right-back are unlikely, so short-term reliance on existing cover and budget savings is necessary.

Read at SempreMilan