Joao Felix have wasted for some time to have their presence known on Milan. The Portuguese forward got its debut in a Italian cup quarterfinals victory over Roma, immediately sparkling speculation about their role under new coach Sergio Concepticao—And what it might mean for colleague Portuguese star Rafael Leao.
With Felix’s strong start and Conceicao’s clear expectations of Leao, the dynamics between the two players were able to form Milan Attacking hierarchy During the rest of the season and then.
Leao, Milanos No. 10has long been regarded as the club’s offensive talisman, but his inconsistency Often have frustrated coaches. He has contributed four goals and five assists in 20 performances This season, but all his goals have come in -matches.
Conceicao, who recently replaced Paulo Fonseca, has made it clear that he expects more from Leao, especially in the case of his the work rate from the ball. After his side victory over Roma, the coach did not drop words: “He can do more, much more. He has incredible quality, but he has to work hard even when he doesn’t have the ball. He must be available to the team. Going out of the comfort zone is not easy, but for me it is important. “
However, Felix’s immediate impact has impressed Milan’s manager. Even with just A training session Under his belt he delivered a prominent performance and made a sublime chip to seal Milan’s victory. His adaptability, movement and understanding of Conceicao’s system Has quickly made him an asset and raised questions about Leao’s guaranteed place in start XI.
Felix as a direct competitor?
Leao did not start against Roma because of fitness problemsand Alex Jimenez was placed on the left wing instead. When Felix was introduced in 59th minuteHe played with his Portuguese teammate for a short period of time, but there are growing speculation that Conceicao could distribute Felix as a Left wing Going forward.
According to Gazzetta dello sportThis can either drive Leao to raise their game or force him to the bench. Unlike former coaches who built Milan’s attack around Leao’s explosive runs, the boss seems to prefer one more structured, hard -working strategy. If Felix is seen as more efficient in that system, Leao could be on the outside and look in.
Leao’s future at Milan: Summer of uncertainty?
Outside the plan remains Leao’s future one hot topic. Reports suggest that super agent Jorge Mendes have explored options for 25-year-old edgewith Barcelona emerging as a potential destination. Leao himself, however, has expressed a desire to “Writ history” at Milan before considering a move.
At the same time, Rossoneri is already looking for Extend Felix’s stay In addition to his current loan. Rossoneri plans to renegotiate with Chelsea in the summer, to secure another seasonal loan that includes one Alternative to buy. The reported cost would be nearby 8 million euro € 10 million for the loan, with one 30 million euro € 35 million Ability to buy Felix permanently in 2025-26The La Gazzetta Dello Sport addition.
Milan’s coming Series one match against Empoli will offer additional insight into Conceicao’s plans. Reports indicate that Felix, Santiago Gimenez and Riccardo Sottil could start, while Leao and Tijjani Reijnders May be a bench. Although Leao is still recovering from one ankle damageHis absence from start XI in consecutive matches raises questions. If Felix impresses again, Leao’s position as a Uncerted starter may be in danger.
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