AC Milan’s lineup against Arsenal won’t be the same one we’ll see in Serie A—but it’ll be close. While waiting for Modric and Gimenez, along with the other new signings expected to arrive between now and the end of August, the Rossoneri are preparing for this high-profile friendly with the mindset of a real match. That’s the message coach Massimiliano Allegri wants to instill—especially in one player in particular.
That player is, of course, Rafael Leão. He’s been at the heart of Milan for years, but never before has he been under this much pressure to make a definitive leap in quality. Naturally, the Italian tactician, who turns 58 in August, knows he can’t put all the expectations on one man alone: that’s why he’s set up a focused, disciplined defense to counter Arteta’s side, which is dangerous in every situation, and a midfield structured around Ricci’s ball distribution.
But all eyes will be on AC Milan winger Rafael Leao...
The Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Portuguese winger will be under the microscope, both for tactical reasons and to assess his leadership on the pitch. Fans in Singapore went wild for him outside the team hotel, but Leão now has to win over his teammates on the field. So far, his attitude and work ethic wearing the number 10 shirt are sending strong positive signals, and Allegri is understandably keeping him close. But how will he carry himself at the National Stadium?
