Coach Massimiliano Allegri has described Rafael Leao as an “extraordinary” player and has given him significant attention in training, echoing former coach Stefano Pioli`s approach. After a challenging season under Fonseca and Conceiçao, marked by a tougher stance and punitive benchings that failed to yield results, the era of disciplinary measures seems to be over for Leao. Allegri intends to foster an environment based on dialogue, collaboration, and support, similar to the one that previously allowed Rafa to flourish.
AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri leads a training session alongside Rafael Leao.
Allegri`s Words on Leao
During his introductory press conference, Allegri emphasized Leao`s immense potential, stating: “Leao is extraordinary; he will undoubtedly have a great season. He`s entering his prime; typically, the most crucial years in a player`s career are between 26 and 30 (Leao just turned 26). I believe he is more responsible; I`ve met and spoken with him. All the prerequisites are there for him to do well.” He added a statement that resonates with Leao`s qualities: “Football is art; people come to the stadium to see technical prowess.” While Leao may not be known for refined technique, his exceptional athletic abilities make him one of the most exciting and beloved players among AC Milan fans, evidenced by his jersey being the top seller since Tonali`s departure.
Leao and the Training Camp
The first training session at Milanello confirmed this new strategy. Allegri was observed engaging in lengthy conversations with Leao, both at the start of the session and during drills, repeatedly instructing him to “open up” and play wider. This type of interaction, blending specific instructions with a warm and playful tone, could be the key to unlocking Leao`s full potential, just as Pioli successfully did. Pioli would both challenge and nurture Rafa, forgiving occasional lapses but consistently fielding him, confident in his response. Between January 2022 and May 2023, Leao fully repaid that trust, becoming the league`s best player and leading AC Milan to the Scudetto, and then, in the following spring, to the Champions League semifinals during a period without cup commitments, similar to the upcoming season.
Rafa and the 20-Goal Target
It is expected that Allegri will follow a similar path. Leao will have a guaranteed starting spot, despite the ongoing question of finding a suitable alternative on the left wing (which still needs to be addressed). Allegri will grant him significant trust, offering encouragement both publicly and privately, and will demand more direct contributions and decisiveness on the field, starting wide but also making an impact in the penalty area. Without his close teammate Theo Hernandez on the left flank, it will be intriguing to see how Leao adapts. His 8 goals last season are considered too few, especially compared to the 15 he scored in the 2022-23 season. Fans aspire to see him reach 20 goals, and Allegri will strive to realize this ambition, aiming to transform Leao into a consistently high-performing player, a true turning point for his career and for AC Milan.
