Rafa Leao, Milan's number 10, gave an interview from Singapore to La Gazzetta dello Sport, through correspondent Andrea Ramazzotti.
The Portuguese forward began by commenting on his role as one of the team’s veterans:
"A leader is someone who helps the team win on the pitch. That’s what I want to do. On the pitch. I've been at Milan for a few years now, I know the club and the pressure that comes with being here. I always try to help the new arrivals, to make them understand that at a big club like Milan, you have to give your best at all times because winning trophies is the only thing that matters."
Leao has often been criticized for lacking consistency, especially when it comes to goals and assists:
"That’s exactly what I’ve been missing so far to be able to compare myself to those at the very top."
Helping him make that potential leap is Milan’s new head coach, Massimiliano Allegri:
"My first impression of Allegri was very positive, and I’m happy to have an experienced coach at Milan—someone who has already won here and been a champion. What I like about him is that he gives me the freedom to express my talent. He brings experience, knows how to manage the dressing room, enjoys working with young players, and talks to everyone. He gives a lot to the team, and I’m convinced he can help me have a great season too. He talks to me a lot and sometimes yells on the pitch, but he has a lot to offer both to me and to the others. I have a good feeling."
Still, Rafael Leao has already achieved plenty in a Milan shirt...
"I’ve already accomplished important things here at Milan—I’ve won the Scudetto. I believe I’ve already matured... Every year, people expect more from me, and I want to keep improving. Allegri will help us grow because in training he brings in new ideas that can help me become a more complete player."
He added:
"For me, playing in this shirt has been a dream since the first day I arrived in Milan. And from day one, the expectation has always been to win. Every year... Milan deserves to have a great season, and we have to start the league in the best way possible to finish among the top four. If the team works well, it’s easier for individuals to shine. The Scudetto? We’re Milan, and I repeat: we have to aim to win every game. From the very first one."
And a promise to the fans? Leao said:
"We’ll try to bring them joy—in every match. Our goal is to win a trophy."
