Charles De Ketelaere’s transformation from a Milan misfit to Atalanta’s crown jewel is a tale of redemption and strategic brilliance. The Belgian forward, once struggling to make an impact at San Siro, has become a record-breaking sensation in Bergamo.
Calciomercato report how In a recent match against Young Boys, De Ketelaere showcased his extraordinary talent, contributing to five goals in a single Champions League game—a first for any player representing an Italian team. His performance was so dominant that it overshadowed the absence of Atalanta’s European final hero, Ademola Lookman.
De Ketelaere’s resurgence can be attributed to Atalanta’s nurturing environment, which prioritized patience and trust. The team’s cohesive structure and personalized approach to player development have allowed the Belgian to flourish. His versatility, vision, and courage on the field have finally found the perfect stage to shine.
The contrast with his time at Milan is stark. What was once perceived as apathy is now recognized as seriousness and dedication. Milan’s mistake was not just in failing to unlock De Ketelaere’s potential but also in the financial aspects of the deal. The Rossoneri’s hard-fought €35 million acquisition from Club Brugge now seems a costly misstep.
Atalanta, on the other hand, orchestrated a financial masterpiece. They secured De Ketelaere on an initial loan with a purchase option, cleverly structuring the deal to optimize their financial position. By postponing the formal completion of the transfer to the 2025-26 fiscal year, Atalanta has ensured De Ketelaere’s continued presence while deferring the final payment.
The young Belgian, who has already amassed an impressive 18 goals and 20 assists in 68 appearances for Atalanta, is now valued at over €40 million. This represents a potential €11 million profit for the Bergamo club, showcasing their astute business acumen.
As De Ketelaere continues to dazzle in the black and blue of Atalanta, Milan is left to ponder what might have been. The player they once struggled to integrate is now the one they desperately need, leading Atalanta to success in both domestic and European competitions while Milan lags behind in both arenas.
In the end, Atalanta’s patience, strategic planning, and faith in De Ketelaere’s abilities have paid off handsomely, turning a Milan castoff into a prized asset and leaving the Rossoneri to rue their missed opportunity.
