Within the in-depth feature on Rafael Leao, Corriere dello Sport reveals a behind-the-scenes detail about the relationship between Massimiliano Allegri and the Portuguese player:
“What immediately stands out when watching training sessions at Milanello,” it reads, “are the intense conversations between Allegri and Leao at the end of each session. There are constant exchanges even during training matches between the forward and the coach, aimed at continually improving their understanding. Leao will be the key to Milan’s season, and Max has been pushing him since the very first day of pre-season. In fact, after every training session, Allegri’s coaching staff also focuses on Leao, explaining the correct movements and what is required in matches by the former Juventus manager’s style of football.”
Is this Leao's year of breakthrough?
Leao has been asked to finally step up and become a true leader. Milan can no longer afford to wait for him, and perhaps that’s one of the reasons why the club ultimately chose to rely on Max Allegri — the right coach to reignite motivation in a player who, more than anyone else in recent years, has shown he can make the difference.
This season, therefore, must be the one where the Portuguese star achieves full breakthrough status, especially considering that with a contract expiring in June 2028, things could already start to change as early as next summer.
Suitors for Leao are never in short supply — Barcelona, for instance, has never truly taken its eyes off Milan’s number 10 after last season’s (failed) attempt.
