Storm clouds have been gathered over Milan in recent months. A challenging season, a cracked connection with supporters and a club that struggles to maintain direction in the midst of probable changes at the top. Yet, from the shadows of uncertainty, Rafael Leao has delivered a message high and clear– One that can only change the tone of Milan’s present and future.
Rossoneri recently received a strong and unambiguous signal from Christian Pulisic’s high -profile teammatewhich, despite constant links to a move abroad – including a revived interest from Barcelona—Has has already made its decision.
The red and black season has not planned. Lack of consistency in the resultsEspecially at home, has left supporters restless and frustrated. And with each mistake, the limelight has burned lighter on Leao. His form has sometimes dipped, which has led to Public criticism and whispering of dissatisfaction with the dressing room.
And even though this was not the first time the fan base had activated its star man, there were new signs that the relationship had reached its breaking point. Mundo Deportivo reported in March That the club even considered releasing him from start XI, with Italian stores floating the idea that the Portuguese star could be sold this summer.
Barcelona is waiting in the wings
Of course, Barcelona’s name quickly resurfaced. The Catalan giants had previously explored a feature for Leao in the last stages of last summer’s transfer window. Economic restrictions had stopped all serious calls, but with Milan’s possible openness to a sale, Barca’s interest could resume under new coach Hansi -girl.
Given his feeling, speed and versatility, Leao fits the profile of a modern edge that Barcelona longs forEspecially with girls that are likely to reshape the attacking trident. “He can be a valuable addition to Flick’s squad,” wrote La Gazzetta Dello SportWhich suggests that a summer weave can happen if Barcelona makes the necessary financial maneuvers. But here is the story.
Despite speculation and criticism, Rafael Leao has no intention to leave Milan this summer. La Gazzetta Dello Sport revealed this week that the Portuguese wing, which recently shone in a 4-0 victory over Udinese with a goal and an assistanthave made its attitude crystal clear: “Regardless of who will be sports director and head coach, he wants to stay.”
His last rise in shape, paired with the tactical transition to one 3-4-3 under Sergio Conceicaohas given him more freedom and taken back his attacking joy. Apart from heavy defensive tasks, the 25-year-old wing looked rejuvenated in Udine. He now hopes that guide the team to Coppa Italia title– Their potential Second trophy in the 2024-25 season-and Secure a European place for next year.
Star reborn through adversity
The Portuguese star has not had it easy. This season has been his most turbulent in a Milan shirt. He was bench seven times in Serie A – something unknown during Stefano Pioli’s service. And he failed to make a single league goal on San Siro this campaign.
But through everything, Leao has grown. They close to him note that he did not like to be on the page or questioned his status. Yet, instead of complaining, He matured.
“He didn’t like to no longer be the absolute protagonist,” reported GazzettaThe “But this new situation forced him to mature, push himself harder and become more complete.” His teammates have also gathered behind him imitating his celebration in surfer style After the last goals.
