Paulo Fonseca’s usage of Rafael Leao, or lack of it, has been the big talking point for AC Milan this season, and it is having an effect.
This weekend saw Leao on the bench once again, and whilst Fonseca has stated that the decision was made for the sake of Tuesday’s Champions League clash, the story does not change. At face value, the Portuguese head coach is not using the club’s prized asset.
Whilst there are reasons for this, there is a disappointment about the lack of minutes available for Leao from everyone, and the winger is on a mission to prove himself. However, the damage could already be done.
A report this morning suggested that the situation is similar to one Fonseca experienced at Roma, and Pietro Mazzara suggests that the head coach’s ‘moral fundamentalism’ is affecting things. With each game Leao is not utilised, his value drops.
Of course, with an extended period of first-team absence, the amount his value drops raises – not starting one game does nothing compared to three consecutive games.
A solution must be found, and the Portuguese duo must find common ground, for their sake, and Milan’s. Failing to do so will possibly affect both of their Rossoneri futures. Overcoming the current moment, though, could re-write the future.