Saelemaekers: Future at Roma or Milan ‘doesn’t depend on me’

Alexis Saelemaekers admits his future at Roma does not depend on him, but he’s determined to bring the Giallorossi back where they belong.

The Belgian winger joined Claudio Ranieri for a pre-match press conference ahead of a Europa League match against Braga.

Saelemaekers joined Roma on loan from Milan last summer.

“I immediately felt at ease here, like in a family. I feel well,” he said, as quoted by TMW.

“The important thing is to play football and play for the team. What will happen in the future does not depend on me. For now, I’m focused on Roma.

Saelemaekers: Future at Roma or Milan ‘doesn’t depend on me’

“I’ve talked to the coach about my role. I can also play as a wide midfielder in a five-man midfield. I can help the team, and I’ll do it. The important thing is to earn points,” he continued.

Roma have already changed three coaches this season and won the first match under Ranieri last weekend, beating Lecce 4-1. Saelemaekers scored the opening goal.

“The atmosphere has never changed; there’s determination and a desire to work hard,” he said.

“Unfortunately, we were unlucky in many ways. We’ve always given our all in every training session, and the coach’s return has given us an extra push to achieve more. That’s what we’ll do until the end of the season.”

The ex-Bologna winger has just returned from an ankle injury that required surgery in September.

“It was tough. I haven’t had many injuries, so it was a bad moment in my career. The important thing is to bring the team back to where we belong,” he concluded.