Saelemaekers on ‘different feeling’ with Modric and new Leao role | OneFootball

Alexis Saelemaekers could ‘feel something different’ from the first Milan training session with Luka Modric and believes Rafael Leao’s new role is ‘amazing.’

The Rossoneri had some ups and downs in pre-season, but while the 4-1 defeat to Chelsea was a setback when down to 10 men, it did mark the debut of star signing Modric.

Saelemaekers explained his thoughts on the arrival of the former Real Madrid hero and Ballon d’Or winner.

Modric and Leao impressed Saelemaekers

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 10: Luka Modric of AC Milan controls the ball during the pre-season friendly match between Chelsea and AC Milan at Stamford Bridge on August 10, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

“From the first training session, he is a player that you really feel he has something different and we are really happy to have him with us,” the Belgian told The Italian Football Podcast.

“We hope he is going to do good things with us and we will help him as much as we can to make him shine on the field.”

Along with the introduction of Modric, new coach Max Allegri has also changed the position for Rafael Leao.

The Portuguese talent has gone from winger to centre-forward and had some impressive performances over the summer.

“The coach has to decide what is his best position but I think that he played amazing in this position in pre-season, in every game he played,” added Saelemaekers.

“He is a very important player for us and, just like with Luka Modric, we will work hard for him to make him shine on the field. I hope he will have an incredible season.”