Charles De Ketelaere shined in his first start with Milan against Bologna, but he wasn’t as effective in the ensuing matches. His performances versus Inter and RB Salzburg were lackluster, as he got lost in the shuffle in two intense and fast-paced contests.
As per La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri are least concerned with his up-and-down showings. They wouldn’t have minded a better display in Champions League, a competition where he has racked up 16 caps, more than any other player on the roster bar Olivier Giroud. But it’s a non-issue for the management and the coaching staff.
De Ketelaere had put up great numbers at Club Brugge, while at Milan has dished one assist in six appearances, three of which from the start, failing to score. He has fired just two shots, none on goal.
The Rossoneri are preaching patience, as they are supremely confident their €35M investment will pay off. Current linchpins such as Sandro Tonali and Rafael Leao needed a long time before reaching their present status after joining. The 21-year-old had more tactical freedom in his previous team, where he acted more as a second-striker than as a no.10. He’ll have to adjust from such standpoint too.
Our Take on the Early Days of De Ketelaere at Milan
A sizeable price tag carries big expectations and responsibilities, but he couldn’t have landed in a more protective environment. The Scudetto winners have always worked wonders in terms of player development. He has already shown glimpses of his talent, the rhythms are likely quicker in Serie A than what he’s used to, but he’ll get there soon enough, and the Rossoneri are in a position to wait.
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