Rafael Leao, during a press conference with the Portugal national team today, said these words:
Now the national team and then vacation: "It has been a very demanding season, with many matches, but when this moment arrives, tiredness goes away and we want to represent our country in front of our fans. We want to qualify for the European Championship."
A star for AC Milan but not a starter in the national team. Why?
"There's no reason. When I come here, I don't think about that, but only about giving my best. I don't think about being a starter or sitting on the bench, I try to make the most of it and improve. I'll be happy, but the most important thing is to represent the national team."
On playing time, Leao said:
"When the coach came here, he reassured me right away. I have full confidence in him, and he has confidence in me. After training sessions, the coach tries to help me, and we get along very well. There's such a relationship with the coach, and it's easier on the field. I have a clear conscience because I know the coach has faith in me."
On Edin Dzeko:
"He's a complete player and still makes a difference despite his age. He's a player we need to pay attention to. But in the central defender position, we have quality players who can handle the job. He doesn't need many chances to make a difference. Bosnia will enter as if it were a final, and we need to prepare for the match in the best way."
On renewing his contract with AC Milan, Leao said:
"The decision had already been made... I told the officials that it was what I wanted. When I arrived at Milan, the club supported me incredibly, and I didn't think about any other club or leaving. I want to make history at Milan."
On Taremi and a possible transfer to Milan:
"That topic is not within my competence. There are people who take care of it; I only talk about the national team."
On the Champions League final, Leao declared:
"Yes, when I went down to the locker room, I was talking with Rúben about the match, and then Bernardo arrived. It was a shame not to reach the final, but I was happy for them. Both of them help me a lot."
