Ketelaere on Lukaku and Serie A’s impact ahead of Italy clash

In the National Stadium a tense silence hangs as the Red Devils prepare for the crucial showdown with Italy on Sunday evening.

The match is of great importance for a place in the quarter‑finals of the Nations League and also represents a special test for Charles De Ketelaere.

Italian experience changes De Ketelaere

The forward, who has been playing in Italy for several years, feels that period has changed him as a footballer.

He made the move to AC Milan in 2022 and a year later to Atalanta, meaning he is now active in Serie A for several seasons.

“Italian football has indeed changed me as a player,” De Ketelaere says, emphasizing especially the tactical aspect.

Van Bommel warns: Italy duel is not a final in Nations League

“It is a different way of playing. It is very tactical. Italian football has indeed made me mature.”

Romelu Lukaku already appears fit for the showdown, while De Ketelaere previously earned a starting spot against Turkey and even scored.

National coach Mark van Bommel does not yet want to reveal whether De Ketelaere will start up front again or if Lukaku will take the position.

“Romelu has experience in big matches. He can bring that along. But Charles De Ketelaere is also a modern striker, dropping back, playing as a forward,” Van Bommel says.

Van Bommel stresses Lukaku's key role against Italy

De Ketelaere does not mind that many questions are being asked about Lukaku and understands the attention on his teammate.

“I have seen Rom score many goals for Belgium. So it makes sense.”