Charles De Ketelaere Leads Atalanta to Top of Serie A with Stunning Goal Against Former Club AC Milan

Charles De Ketelaere has once again made headlines in the Serie A, this time by scoring a crucial goal against his former club, AC Milan, to help Atalanta secure a 2-1 victory and rise to the top of the league table.

The 23-year-old Belgian midfielder, who failed to score a single goal in 40 competitive appearances for Milan after his €36.5m transfer from Club Brugge in 2022, has found new life at Atalanta. Since joining the club on loan with an option to buy, De Ketelaere has scored 19 goals and provided 21 assists in 70 games, significantly improving his performance record.

The decisive moment came when De Ketelaere headed in a Marten de Roon free kick at the back post, despite protests from Milan players, including Theo Hernandez, who claimed he was pushed. However, replays suggested Hernandez was out-jumped by his former teammate.

This victory not only propelled Atalanta to the top of the Serie A standings but also marked a significant milestone for the team under coach Gian Piero Gasperini. Gasperini, who had been tipped to join Napoli during the summer, expressed his joy and pride in the team’s achievement, acknowledging the long-standing support and resilience of the people of Bergamo.

Atalanta’s current form has also positioned them as strong contenders for their upcoming Champions League match against Real Madrid, with many considering them favorites due to their recent performances and the team’s overall strength under Gasperini’s leadership.