AC Milan have enjoyed somewhat of a resurgence in recent years, and at the heart of that resurgence is one of the most exciting talents in world football: Rafael Leao. The Portuguese winger has been one of the standout stars for the Rossoneri after joining from Lille in 2019, and his performances in 2024/25 will undoubtedly be Milan’s key to success on multiple fronts.
Leao Becomes a Star
Rafael Leao’s development at Milan, which has seen him become a star is nothing short of remarkable. On arrival, Leao had potential and showed flashes of brilliance, but he was too often inconsistent, which worked against him. However, fast forward to the present day, and Leao has become a more complete and consistent performer. He has the dribbling skills to get past anyone, and his pace allows him to exploit space. Leao is also a goalscorer and, therefore, a popular choice in many markets for fans who engage in football betting online.
Leao is currently managed by Portuguese compatriot Paulo Fonseca, who, like Leao, made the switch from Lille to join the Rossoneri. There will be a continued period of adjustment, but you’d expect Leao to come out firing, especially after his manager demanded more from him recently.
Leao’s Role in Milan’s Attacking Play
As everyone will expect, Rafael Leao is the heart of Milan’s attacking play. Fonseca usually deploys a 4-2-3-1 system, which is ideal for Leao, who operates best as a left winger who can come inside on his right foot to wreak havoc. A lot of opposition defences often adjust to try to deal with the threat that the Portugal international poses.
At the time of writing, Leao has operated as more of a creator than a goalscorer so far this season, registering four assists in eight appearances in Serie A. Leao has already provided striker Tammy Abraham and fellow wide player Christian Pulisic with chances and goals. His ability to link up with them is another key to Milan’s attack.
Leao’s Importance to Milan’s Ambitions
The ambition for Milan is clear: they want to be Italian champions once again, a feat they last achieved in 2021/22. Alongside challenging for the Scudetto, Milan are also in the Champions League, and want to give a good account of themselves in European football. Leao is very much the player they will rely on to turn ambition into a reality because he has star power.
The difference between Leao and many other Milan players is that he’s a matchwinner and a big game player. Against any opposition in Serie A and the Champions League, Leao can turn a game in his team’s favour in the blink of an eye. He can also get them back on terms when required too.
What’s also clear is that Leao’s best is yet to come, this season and in his career. At twenty-five years old, he has the world at his feet, and Milan have a supreme talent with them until 2028, when he could become one of the best forwards on the planet if he’s not already achieved this status.
