Rafael Leao produced a performance of the highest level on the biggest stage while under a lot of scrutiny during the win against Paris Saint-Germain, but now that must become the norm.
Calciomercato.com write that Leao had been the subject of a lot of criticism after some anonymous performances during October, but took revenge in front of the best player in the world – Kylian Mbappe – of whom many have long maintained that he is the best imitation.
That is not meant as an insult, but a great compliment, and by winning the direct clash with Mbappé he won the match against PSG. Leao was the solution and not the problem, something which must be consistent if Milan are to go further in Europe and fight for the Scudetto.
Of course Mike Maignan’s saves, Olivier Giroud’s goals and other players have had their say in the recent successes, but Pioli realised that Leao was and is his best weapon.
The first leg against PSG did not go to plan as the Rossoneri were schooled, but they did learn that lesson. A more attentive side was seen on Tuesday, of which Leao was a big part as he helped the team remain compact and contributed in both phases.
Pioli put in two midfielders (and left Krunic out), he let the full-backs act as wingers and he created space for Leao. It’s not arithmetic, but it paid off Milan won. To say that the Portuguese played like a champion only ‘because he wanted to’ is wrong, and the game against Lecce is a further chance to prove it.
He has not silenced any critic. Do you use one game to silence you critic,Hell no. He is 24. To whom much is given, much is expected. You can’t demand high salary and expect fans to smile when you are not consistent.He needs to be consistent and play for the team and not himself. Many greats have come through.now is your turn,you gotta make the most of it or no one remembers you. You can not only be remembered for winning one league for a Club like Milan.
Dude. Did Mbappe win the CL? No, because the team around him was not good enough in the end. Midfield especially. You are talking 100% nonsense, completely meaningless.
“You are talking 100% nonsense, completely meaningless.”
Correction: KING dave was speaking the words of truth while it was (once again) you who was puking out “100% nonsense”.
He has not done anything yet. If he wants to remember as one of the greatest.