AC Milan forward Rafael Leao has taken to Twitter after an Italian journalist said on television that opponents should ‘break his legs’ to stop him from dribbling.
Michele Criscitiello was speaking during his show on Sportitalia ( as tweeted by AC Milan – FR) when he discussed how opponents could stop Leao from running through their defence and scoring, like he did against Lecce and Napoli recently.
He then said that players should break Leao’s legs in order to stop him, a sentiment that has been met with serious condemnation on social media.
Leao himself decided to speak up, blaming those who allow these things to be said on television.
His response on Twitter read: “The problem is not who says it but who lets them say this kind of thing..”
Leao has hit a good patch of form at a crucial time in the season and his goals will be crucial to Milan’s chances of making it into the top four.
Was this journalist a Napoli fan by any chance?
It was a silly comment so I’m not gonna defend the journalist. Especially if it leads to a serious injury for our star winger.
But I think in context the guy was actually trying to compliment Leao but ended up delivering it in a senseless manner.
With how disgusting Napoli fans behave against Theo and Leao and FIGC didn’t give big punishment for any act of racism, i’m not surprised if this journalist is really serious with his words.
Whether a ‘metaphor’ or not, the guy acted irresponsibly and was at the very least an idiot.
I didn’t watch the program in which the comments were made. I don’t think he meant harm. Even if he did no professional footballer would be inspired to act on such comments. Rafael Leao should take this in his stride and not be distracted. He is doing so well. He is now showing that he is World Class