When AC Milan (unexpectedly) won Serie A in 2021/22, Rafael Leao was one of the stars of that team. His qualities have never been a problem, it was just the question of consistency and improvement. There was even talk about Real Madrid’s interest. Fast forward to October 2024 and everything is completely different under new coach Paulo Fonseca. Rafa Leão couldn’t resist taking a jab at Fonseca and AC Milan’s management. Speaking to Portuguese journalists after the match against Scotland in the just finished international break, the Rossoneri winger explained the difference in the quality of his performances for the national team versus the club, attributing it to the fact that in the national team, he enjoys the full confidence of everyone—from the Portuguese FA and coaching staff to his teammates.Sarri’s shadow is lurking over Fonseca’s headIn Milan, they attempted to downplay the impact of Leão’s words, interpreting them as general comments without the intent to criticize anyone at the club. Nevertheless, something is off in the relationship between the two Portuguese men, Leão and Fonseca, as if they don’t speak the same language—though they actually share four (Portuguese, French, Italian, and English).Much more has been expected from Leão. If we look at his average ratings in the Italian media, they’re below a passing grade, specifically at 5.6. So, Fonseca and Milan’s management have a point when they expect more from the club’s highest-paid player.When father advises son not to sign for BarcaFonseca wants Leão to take on a leadership role on the field. At 25 years old, he’s no longer too young for such responsibility, and he needs to prove that he’s ready and willing to become a top player, not just an eternal promise.The key source of tension between Leão and Fonseca is that the Milan coach expects his best player to contribute to the defensive phase of the game, especially when Milan is not in possession. While Leão has started to fulfill these defensive duties in recent matches, he’s not convinced that this is his true role, which is causing friction. And since Fonseca is in danger of being sacked due to poor result, maybe Leao is just playing a waiting game.SERIE A – MATCHDAY 8Saturday16:00: (1.97) Como (3.50) Parma (3.80)16:00: (3.60) Genoa (3.25) Bologna (2.15)19:00: (1.40) Milan (5.00) Udinese (9.00)21:45: (2.15) Juventus (3.45) Lazio (3.70)Sunday13:30: (5.90) Empoli (3.70) Napoli (1.70)16:00: (3.20) Lecce (3.40) Fiorentina (2.40)16:00: (5.60) Venezia (3.90) Atalanta (1.70)19:00: (2.80) Cagliari (3.05) Torino (2.70)21:45: (4.40) Roma (3.50) Inter (1.85)Monday21:45: (2.35) Verona (3.20) Monza (3.20)***odds are subject to change***
