Rafael Leao is expected to lead the line for AC Milan against Lazio, and they are an opponent that he likes playing against.
MilanNews report that the relationship between Leao and Massimiliano has always been one of mutual respect and admiration, with the coach eager to instil in the forward a sense of belonging that was perhaps missing last and previous seasons.
Lazio are one of his favourite victims, too. From his goals at San Siro in the Scudetto-winning year (both in the league and in the 4-0 Coppa Italia round of 16 victory) to his last goal of the first half of the season (November 29), the Portuguese has indeed found the net so often against them.
The Biancocelesti’s nemesis
Leao is ready to lead the charge once again, on Sunday evening at the Olimpico against Lazio. He will be joined by Christian Pulisic, who hasn’t scored since December 28th. However, Leao has scored goals, even recently.
Against Lazio, Rafa has four goals and five assists in 14 games against them. The Portuguese has been involved in five goals in his last five league appearances against Lazio (two goals, three assists). His last goal against them came in the first half of the season (the winner on November 29).
To put things in perspective, there is no side in his career against whom Leao boasts moe assists, while in terms of goals he has only netted more against Lecce (5), Fiorentina (6) and Cagliari (7).
Leao has had a positive season on a personal note. Despite suffered from pubalgia, Rafa has scored 10 goals so far this campaign, adding two assists. The hope is that he can continue to improve in form and condition, all with the World Cup on the horizon and talk of a renewal in the background.
