Rafael Leao wore a red and black wristband with his name and number on it in the last league match against Verona. An accessory that sparked different kinds of reactions from social media users. But the story behind it showcases Leao's big heart.
That wristband was nothing but a tender gift given to Leao by a young fan and fellow player. The author of this gesture is an 8-year-old player from AC Milan's under-9 team, Samuel. In the pre-match tunnel before the Milan-Napoli game in early February at San Siro, the young player was among the kids lined up to high-five the passing players. And as soon as Samuel saw his idol Leao, he handed him the personalised wristband, which the Portuguese forward took after giving the child a pat on the head.
Samuel himself told CorSera's microphones:
"When he passed by me, my heart was beating much faster, It was incredible. I gave it to him because Rafa is my idol, I said to him: I give this to you. And he thanked me with a hand on my head."
Then came the surprise and the great gesture from Leao, who wore the wristband against Verona without saying anything to anyone, as champions do. A gesture that moved young Samuel:
"When I saw him with the wristband, I was very happy. The first time I saw the photo, I thought it was a fake, then after seeing it so many times, I really believed it, it was mine. Rafa is really great. I like him when he dribbles, I like his sprints, all his qualities. I hope he continues to wear it and scores many goals."
