SAELEMAEKERS IS THE MVP FROM AC MILAN v BARI | OneFootball

A convincing win and the perfect way to start the new season. Rafa Leão and Christian Pulisic got the goals, but several Rossoneri stood out in the 2-0 victory over Bari. Among them was Alexis Saelemaekers, back in the AC Milan starting XI after his loan spell at Roma, and immediately delivering a performance worthy of applause.

The Belgian was a constant threat to the Bari defence and combined superbly with his teammates, often drifting inside from the right in the team’s 3-5-2 formation. His important role in the Rossoneri setup was already clear during pre-season, and this was evident once more on Sunday night at San Siro.

Effective at both ends of the pitch, Alexis had five attempts at goal, coming close on two occasions - at the end of the first half and just after the restart - with two efforts that were slightly deflected and deserved better luck. He also had 74 touches, won six of seven duels, delivered four crosses, and created three chances - some of the key numbers from his performance.

When he was substituted in the 81st minute to make way for Okafor, he received the deserved applause of the 71,000-strong crowd at San Siro. A positive attitude, work ethic, quality, and attacking flair: Alexis shone throughout the match and was deservedly named MVP of AC Milan v Bari, earning 53% of the votes ahead of the two goalscorers, Pulisic and Leão. Well done, Alexis, and keep it up!

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