Tiago Fernandes, former coach of Rafael Leao in Sporting's youth teams, spoke to tuttomercatoweb.com about the Rossoneri striker and his new role as a center forward: "Rafael is a special player for me. He always will be. I coached him from age 12, practically everywhere in Sporting's youth system. Only Cristiano Ronaldo, in Lisbon, had that kind of talent at that age. He is without any doubt the best player I have ever had."
What else did Tiago Fernandes say about Rafael Leao?
"His performance as a striker is not new, Rafael is a number 9. He has almost always played there. Since he was little, he reminded me of Ronaldo 'Fenomeno': the speed, the technique, the quality in the final touch. Leao can play anywhere, in the best clubs in the world. He is capable of playing for any team. It is very exciting to see him shine at San Siro, he repays the many hours of work we spent together on the pitch. We were very important to each other and today I am really happy that he is a key player in a great club like the Rossoneri. Allegri's Milan is perfect for bringing out all his qualities, I am convinced that this year he will score a lot and be happy."
