The number 10 back at the center of the stage.
Rafael Leao sent a strong and clear message in Udine: his present is with the Rossoneri, and so will be his future. Regardless of the new coach and the new sporting director, he wants to stay and become central again. Writing about it is La Gazzetta dello Sport, which highlights how the Portuguese wants to lead the team in this final stretch of the 2024/25 season to win the second trophy of the year (Coppa Italia).
The class of '99, as those close to him say, did not appreciate the role carved out for him first by Fonseca and then by Conceicao. They tried to make him one among many, no longer the absolute protagonist. This forced him to mature and put himself even more on the line, becoming even more complete and mentally stronger.
The current coach has now opted for a 3-4-3, a version of Milan that gives Rafael Leao more freedom, as he is exempt from certain defensive duties.
The result?
A goal and an assist in Udine and, in general, one of his best games in recent times.
Now he has to break a taboo called San Siro: of the 7 goals he has scored in Serie A, not a single one has come at home. His last goal in the league dates back to May 2024, in the 3-3 draw against Salernitana. The first chance will come against Atalanta, a big match from which the Rossoneri must emerge victorious if they still want to aim for Europe through Serie A. Surfing over the Atalanta side to shake off another burden, yet another of a troubled season.
