AC Milan have gotten the first good news of the summer today, as Rafael Leao and Massimiliano Allegri have already aligned on the future.
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Whenever Allegri’s name was linked to Milan, Leao’s name often followed. Understandable, yes, but a sign nonetheless. The situation has always been clear. The Italian coach wants a Rossoneri built around a star, the Portuguese one to be exact.
After the frustrations of last season, there is a belief that a return to a different level can be reached, and Allegri has laid the foundations for his return already.
Leao and Allegri: the marriage
As Gazzetta dello Sport writes, the forward is already fired up, engaging in training sessions already and has refused the chance to have ‘extra’ holiday. The reason why? Simple, because he wants to get back to work.
A summer which can be defining still. In fact, it probably was always going to be. Bayern Munich chased his trail for a while, as did Barcelona. It could have been the summer of saying goodbye, but instead, it has turned into solidity.
When he got the job, Allegri made sure to start contacting the winger immediately, informing him of his plans for centrality. Largely due to the belief that he can help Leao reach the level that he has always shown to be able to, but rarely has.
Maturity and the next step
Last season was difficult for everyone. However, Leao faced challenges, perhaps, more than we have seen for him with the Diavolo. From the bench to controversies, there was a constant stream of frustration about his situation.
Nevertheless, he displayed signs of maturing throughout, and with a coach who can manage ‘champions’, this should only be furthered. Whilst Igli Tare’s arrival should also provide somewhat of a platform and middle ground.
Rafa will return to Milanello ‘from the start’, seeking to learn from Allegri straight away. After all, the best Leao is the best for everyone.