AC Milan’s Alexis Saelemaekers has told HLN that he is confident that by the time the World Cup starts, he will be in top shape. The versatile player said “I will be in top shape in Qatar. The decision rests with the national coach”.
Saelemaekers picked up a ligament injury in his left knee during the match between AC Milan and Empoli on the first of October. The 23 year-old Belgian has been working on recovery ever since, with his aim of being fit for the World Cup.
Former Anderlecht youth player Saelemaekers joined AC Milan initially on loan in the 2019/2020 season, before the Italian side picked up the option to make the transfer permanent the following season. Saelemaekers has represented the Red Devils at all levels from U16 right up to the first team. He has nine caps and has scored once.
Saelemaekers is one of a number of injury concerns for Roberto Martinez and the Red Devils. Record goalscorer Romelu Lukaku is also racing against the clock to get fit in time for the tournament. Sports doctor Chris Goossens is confident that Lukaku will be fit for Qatar, even if he can only play limited minutes to start the tournament.
