Alexis Saelemaekers has been announced as one of AS Roma’s final additions before the transfer window closed on Friday night. The Belgian winger arrives on loan from AC Milan, set to stay with the Giallorossi until the end of the season.
In his debut interview with Roma, Saelemaekers shared his excitement and reasons for making the switch to the capital. “I’m very happy to be here,” he said. “I must thank the club and the Friedkin family for this opportunity. You can immediately feel the passion when you enter Rome. The fans greet you warmly, even at the sports center. I’m thrilled.”
Saelemaekers highlighted the influence of Roma’s coach and the fervor of the fans in his decision to join. “The coach played a huge role in my choice, as did the passion of the fans. The club itself is great on an international level. Florenzi also spoke highly of the city and the club, which helped me decide. I’m super happy to be here.”
Reflecting on his time at Milan, Saelemaekers noted, “When I arrived at Milan, I was still young and hadn’t yet experienced European football at big clubs. Training alongside players like Ibrahimovic, Giroud, and Origi taught me a lot.”
Winning the Serie A title with Milan was a significant milestone in his career. “At Bologna, I was seen as a key player for the group, which was a new experience for me. It made me take on more responsibility and truly changed me.”
Saelemaekers also mentioned a conversation with Roma’s coach that solidified his decision to join. “A few weeks ago, I spoke with the coach, and what impressed me most was his ambition to elevate Roma to the highest level. I found my mentality reflected in his. I always strive to give my best on the pitch, and I felt he shared this drive. After that, I had no doubts about where I wanted to be.”
He also shared an anecdote about his former teammate, Svilar. “Svilar was my first goalkeeper at Anderlecht. He’s always been very strong, a goalkeeper of another level. Last year, before a match at the Olimpico, we chatted, and after the game, he was upset about the goal I scored against him. But he’s a great friend.”
Finally, Saelemaekers expressed his anticipation for playing at the Stadio Olimpico. “I still remember my first match with Milan against Roma, when the fans started singing the anthem. I can’t wait to experience it as a Roma player.”
