MN: 'Exam passed' - Athekame shows promise against Bologna as confidence emerges
Briefly

MN: 'Exam passed' - Athekame shows promise against Bologna as confidence emerges
"Not naturally a wing-back, his addition was scrutinised heavily, given he was not really what Milan needed. With Alexis Saelemaekers at wing-back, an experienced back-up would have probably ticked more boxes. After all, without Saelemaekers - who isn't a natural wing-back in his own right - the Rossoneri look slim. Fikayo Tomori can provide cover at right-back, and it seemed the Swiss also preferred this role. However, things may have turned."
"Against Bologna, as MilanNews writes, the young defender did not make the headlines. However, his performance was very solid. It was a complex match and he got through perfectly, showing that he can compete against European-level opposition. He played without fear, was quick in every aspect and showed determination, all whilst taking the reins from a showstopper in Saelemaekers. Whilst there was no immediate impact on the scoreline from him, he tried a few crosses into the box, whilst also defending well also."
Zachary Athekame joined AC Milan amid questions about his role and the summer recruitment. He is not a natural wing-back, so his addition drew heavy scrutiny given Milan's apparent needs. Alexis Saelemaekers occupies the wing-back role but is not a natural there, leaving the squad light without him. Fikayo Tomori can cover right-back and reportedly preferred that position, but Athekame has shown promise. Against Bologna he delivered a solid, composed performance, defending well, moving quickly, and demonstrating determination. He attempted crosses into the box and offered reliable cover, earning a chance to compete as a real alternative.
Read at SempreMilan
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