As is ever the case in big fixtures, AC Milan will look to Rafael Leao for inspiration if they are to be victorious against AS Roma in their Europa League clash on Thursday night. Ahead of the clash, a report has highlighted an area where the game may be decided.
For Leao, this season has not been his finest in terms of output. Nevertheless, his class has still shone through, and in 2024, this has been evident on several occasions.
Before the international break, the 24-year-old had 11 contributions across all competitions, and this has continued after his return, with two standout performances, headlined by two goals and an assist. Given the magnitude of this part of the season, it is arguable that his return to his best could not have come at a better time for himself – ahead of the European Championships in the summer – and Milan.
Today, Corriere dello Sport (via PianetaMilan) have reported that the fixture will be decided on the wings, and therefore, Leao must be at his best. He will likely be challenged by Zeki Celik at right-back, and the pair are familiar with each other, having played together at Lille.
The Giallorossi want to neutralise Leao as much as possible through a more defensively-minded full-back instead of risking a more attacking option due to the risk of allowing Leao more space.
We are miles ahead of Roma. It should be an easy game.
Wouldn’t say so the last three games we played against them Dybala was injured. Roma with Dybala are different
I agree that with Dyabala they are better. But still they are way behind us. This season especialy. Well hopfully they wont pull something spectacular against us.
Nothing is a given. Leao is one yellow away from being suspended for the second leg.
Would do well to remind him of this fact before this match.