AC Milan forward Rafael Leao has insisted that he is now feeling the confidence of the coach and his team-mates after a ‘difficult’ first season.
The Portuguese starlet arrived from Lille in summer 2019 and had an inconsistent season last season, showing glimpses of what he can do without ever hitting stride. In 2020-21 though it has been a different story, as he has amassed three goals and three assists in seven games across Serie A and the Europa League.
Leao was interviewed by Sky Italia after the game, with his comments transcribed by MilanNews and translated below.
He began by discussing his favoured role, given that there has been a lot of debate in the media and among supporters about whether he is better as a left winger or as a centre-forward.
Ultimately he has had a taste of both in the last two games, starting on the left wing and getting two assists against Roma on Monday before playing up front and scoring tonight.
“I try to give my best in whatever role the coach puts me, as a center forward I am closer to the goal and I can score,” he said.
“Last year I arrived in a new country, a new league. Serie A is difficult, I had a bit of difficulty, but now I feel good, I feel the confidence, then when you score or serve assists confidence increases.”
On the comparison with Thierry Henry: “A little yes, as a way of running”.
“The coach always talks to me, he shows me the videos, when I have to shoot in depth, to try and make more of a difference.
“We have confidence, so it is easier to do great things. The coach tells us that the most important thing is to have fun, that makes the difference.”