Rafael Leao insisted that tomorrow’s match against Porto is a must-win game for AC Milan in their Champions League hopes and elaborated on his development this season.
Milan have left themselves with a very tough job if they are to qualify for the knockout stages of the competition as they lost their first two group games against Liverpool and Atletico Madrid, setting up a crucial next two games against Porto.
The team continue to play well in the league though and sit second with seven wins out of eight to begin the new campaign, and Leao has been instrumental in that with his four goal contributions in Serie A.
Leao spoke to the media during his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s Champions League game against Porto, and MilanNews relayed all of his comments which we have translated before.
What has changed in you this year?
“I think the thing I missed was consistency. Today I am more consistent thanks to my team-mates and my coach.”
Is this match a derby for you given your past at Sporting CP?
“Playing against Porto is always difficult. They are difficult to face but tomorrow for me and my team-mates it will be a final, we want to win and score points to move forward.”
Do Milan have to win tomorrow?
“It’s a final and it will be from the first minutes. We want to play with the right mind because Porto are a good team. They have quality and the coach knows Italian football.”
Can you become one of the world’s best?
“I want to grow and I will try to do it every day at Milanello with my team-mates.”
What do you expect from Porto?
“Porto will want to win the game because they too want to get points. We are expecting a good challenge.”
Do you feel like a strong group?
“Yes, we want to go far. We are a young team but with the right mind. There are experienced players and tomorrow we can show what we know how to do.”
How different is Serie A from the Champions League?
“Serie A is a difficult league. When I arrived here I felt a big difference from Ligue 1. I have been flying the Champions League since I was a child, listening to the music. I want to take advantage of this opportunity and win tomorrow.”
How have things changed since last year?
“I feel the confidence of my team-mates, the coach and the managers. This year I feel a lot of confidence and I have the right mind, I know that I can make a difference in every moment of the match and I know that I can dribble the opponent. assist or a goal. Everyone’s trust has given me a lot .”
Could tomorrow’s match be important for the national team?
“I want to show everyone what I can do in every match. The important thing is to win, not to score or assist. The important thing is to score points and try to go to the Champions League.”
READ MORE: Pioli names what Milan are missing to become great again and analysis UCL struggles so far
Not only consistency was missing from Leao. Leao lack ambition, sometimes poor decision and lazy. If only he found his driving force, than he will bcoming a player that more dangerous than mbappe or even Haaland. Who knows.
Just my opinion. Wish u d best Leao. Forza Milan
You are Right! He should be serious as a professional in football…not playing as a joker…