Rafael Leão’s recent performances for AC Milan, particularly in the match against Lecce where he wore the captain’s armband, have showcased a remarkable transformation in his playing style and attitude. Often criticized for his perceived indolence and tendency to prioritize flashy plays over effectiveness, Leão is now displaying a more tactically astute and committed approach on the pitch.
Calciomercato report how Manager Paulo Fonseca has been instrumental in this evolution, emphasizing what he calls “liderança” – a Portuguese twist on leadership. This concept of shared leadership involves other key players like Theo Hernandez, Alvaro Morata, Tammy Abraham, and Tijjani Reijnders, alongside established leaders like Mike Maignan, Matteo Gabbia, and official captain Davide Calabria.
Fonseca’s post-match comments highlight the change in Leão: “I’ve always told Leão he’s great, but now he needs to become a team player. Being captain is a responsibility. I like that he’s decisive, like with his assist. But I appreciate more the growth he’s showing in defense. Today, he’s a different player. He’s not perfect yet, but I see the effort he’s putting in to help the team.”
The most notable improvement in Leão’s game is his work off the ball. His pressing has become more effective, as evidenced in the build-up to Pulisic’s goal against Lecce. Leão’s tenacious pressing on Gaspar initiated the sequence that led to the goal, showcasing a newfound willingness to engage in defensive duties.
Statistical analysis from Wyscout supports this observation. In the Lecce match, Leão won 2 out of 5 defensive duels, 2 out of 2 aerial duels, made 2 interceptions, and recovered 4 balls, with 3 of those recoveries in his own half. He even recorded a clearance, all while maintaining his attacking prowess, as demonstrated by his precise assist to Theo Hernandez for Milan’s second goal.
While Fonseca acknowledges that Leão is not yet perfect, the progress is undeniable. The Portuguese winger is evolving into a more complete player, balancing his natural flair with a newfound commitment to team play and defensive responsibilities. This transformation could be key to Milan’s ambitions this season and Leão’s own development as a world-class talent.
