AC Milan striker Rafael Leao has insisted that he feels the confidence of both Stefano Pioli and his team-mates despite a tough first season in Italy.
It has not been an easy season for the Portuguese starlet since his big-money arrival from Lille as he has struggled to hold down a place in the starting XI, even despite Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s injury problems.
However, there has been a glimmer of light. Leao was on the scoresheet for the second time since the return of Serie A as he netted in Milan’s 2-2 come-from-behind draw with SPAL.
He spoke to Milan TV about his current situation and how he feels at the club.
Do you feel the trust of the environment? “I feel the confidence of the coach and my team-mates, so it’s easier to help the team.”
What is your favourite goal for the Rossoneri? “For me it’s the one against Fiorentina, but I want to score a goal that is also important for the standings.”
The race for Europe: “In the last three games we have played some good games, also the victory against Roma at home. It was a shame against SPAL because we created a lot but football is like that, and on Saturday there is another very important game.
“There are still 9 games to play. For us, reaching Europe is too important, we will play them all as if they were the finals.”
What is your favourite position on the field? “Whichever position the coach chooses, my only goal is to help the team and stay close to the goal to score.”
Are you happy that Saelemaekers is staying permanently? “I am very happy for him, he is a team-mate to whom I am very attached and we feel good on the field too.”
Playing with Ibra: “He is a very important companion for me, I always try to be close to him and he always motivates me.”
What match do you expect against Lazio? “Lazio is a very strong team, it has great players. We will do our best to win. ”
How is your setting in Milan going? “I am happy, Milan is a very beautiful city and I like it very much.”
