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August 1, 2024

Leao: ‘I can be one of the best in the world’ – Milan star responds to critics – Seria A

Credit to Italian Serie A Image Gallery

In response to recent criticism, Milan star Rafael Leao confidently declared his potential to become one of the top players globally.

Portugal International provided a comprehensive interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport, published on Thursday

In his conversation with the Italian publication, Leao covered a range of subjects, including his new coach, Paulo Fonseca, and teammates Álvaro Morata and Strahinja Pavlovic. He also discussed his personal growth, increased maturity, and preference for playing on the flanks rather than in a central role.

Leao also shared that he is anticipating the arrival of twin boys later this year.

“I’m going to be a father soon, a father of twins. They should be born in November. I’m sure it will be a very nice experience. Let’s say it gives me another reason to value my family and continue working hard for them,” Leao shared in his interview with La Gazzetta.

Does he view this as a joyful milestone in his life?

“Yes, going out in the quarter-finals at the European Championships was a difficult moment, but it was still a great experience. “

“The holidays did me good. Instead of coming here to New York or to Miami, I went to see my relatives in Portugal. They are the ones who are close to me in the good times and in the bad. Now I’m fired up for the season, I’m happy to be with my teammates and play another year in this jersey.” 

Is Leao contributing enough goals for Milan?

The 25-year-old was questioned about the criticism that he doesn’t score enough for a player of his talent.

He explained that his primary focus has always been on providing entertainment and creating assists, adding that statistics don’t always capture the complete picture of a player’s contribution.

“When I was little, I liked dribbling and making assists. I watched everyone, especially Xavi and Iniesta, who could make 30-yard passes, or even just five yard passes to put a striker through on goal. That’s why I’m not selfish. “

“My favourites have always been Ronaldinho, Cristiano Ronaldo at Manchester United, all those who were capable of making incredible plays or passes. That’s how I see myself, I bring something different.”

“Football is just numbers now. Of course, numbers are important, but they don’t account for talent. Guys who can’t make a pass but score 30 goals are put on a level above everyone else, even above the guys who bring something a bit different. Football is about putting on a show and winning, though, that’s why they come to watch us.” 

Leao elaborated on why he is more effective playing on the wing than in central positions.

“I want to score more goals, that’s clear. I’ll try to do both the plays and the goals. On the pitch, I can adapt. I can play close to the striker, but now, with more tactical football, the teams move back and occupy the central area a lot. I haven’t played with my back to goal too much in recent years, I need space to see the whole pitch. I don’t see myself playing centre-forward any time soon.” 

Leao on Fonseca, Morata, Pavlovic, and Camarda

Leao feels that Milan is already adjusting to the coaching methods and playing style of their new manager, Fonseca.

“He’s a really direct person. He immediately shows what he wants. His teams have always played good football and for the attackers, he’s top. I feel good with him and his staff are always happy. The training sessions are very intense, always on the ball. In my opinion, we have already understood his playing ideas, it will be great.” 

When questioned about Fonseca’s on-field instructions, he responded, “He asks me to stay wide, look for the ball, do one-twos, get close to the area.” 

Leao also thinks Alvaro Morata is an ideal replacement for the recently departed Olivier Giroud. 

“Morata and Giroud are two champions. One in, one out. Giroud made history for Milan, but I know Morata well, too. He’s a striker who works hard and is very mobile, it will be great for us attackers. Let’s hope he scores a lot of goals too.” 

Leao is also available to guide and support the teenage prodigy, Camarda.

“He is still young, but he’s doing really well. I expect a lot from him. I always try to talk to him, make him understand that playing in the first team is different to playing with guys your own age. He has to be strong, combative. “

“He already knows how to score goals, he has to learn other things, but he will be the future of Milan. Us older guys are behind him, myself included. “

“I’ve been here for six years now, and that’s how I am. I always try to help the younger players. When I arrived in Milan, the more experienced guys gave me a hand, now it’s up to us.”

What are Leao’s thoughts on the new Rossoneri center-back, Pavlovic?

“He’s strong, mean, good with the ball, he’s physical. I have to say that I really like the players who have been brought in by Milan this summer.” 

Leao: ‘I can become one of the best players in the world’ 

The Rossoneri forward responded with confidence when asked about his critics.

He said: “Sometimes people don’t understand certain things about football, but that doesn’t bother me. The only criticism I hear is from my coach, the managers, and those at Milan. They love me here, they know what level I can get to, and I know it too. I can be one of the best, not just at Milan, but in the world.”