Rafael Leao, who is set to officially become a Galatasaray player, spoke to Sky Sport at the end of his time with Milan:
“Yes, it’s a difficult moment. I said goodbye to my teammates after seven years with them. The club always helped me; it helped me grow and understand what it means to play at the highest level while representing a great club like Milan. The time has come to say goodbye.
I would have liked to say goodbye in a different way. I would have liked to have had another kind of farewell, perhaps by being out on the pitch one more time in front of the fans, who helped me so much, especially during the difficult moments.
I will certainly be part of the club’s history, because I know what I have done here. I will carry everyone who helped me in my heart. I can only say thank you."
How do you say goodbye to Milan?
"That’s how it is, that’s life: we learn, and we say goodbye. It’s not a love that has ended, because the love I have for Milan will never end. I will watch them from afar."
What is your fondest memory?
“When you win trophies, those are the things that stay with you the most. You know which ones I mean. I will remember them until the end.”
Did you want to continue, or was this decision imposed on you?
“These are moments when you have to make decisions and take different paths. Milan will always be Milan. The team is at a very high level and has a great coach. We were only together for a short time, but Amorim is very good, he is determined and he can help Milan achieve important things. He plays football that I like; I like Amorim’s style of football. I will watch Milan from afar. I wish them all the best."
Who would you like to thank?
“Everyone. Everyone who has been part of Milan has helped me. That’s life; it’s a cycle. Even though not everything ends here.
Milan will continue to do great things for their fans. The important thing is for Milan to remain at the top and continue winning. I wish them all the best.”
Leao, did you cry?
“I cried, a lot. It’s normal; the emotion is part of it.”
