There can be a lot said about Rafael Leao, and in the past few years, there often has been. Ultimately, the AC Milan winger has often been labelled as an underperformer.
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The treatment of Leao can certainly be deemed a bit harsh, given that the facts point quite clearly in the other direction. In Serie A, he has had 21 contributions in 34 games (2021/22), 25 contributions in 35 games, being the MVP (2022/23), 19 contributions in 34 games (2023/24) and last year, 18 contributions in 34 games.
His base level, since 2021, being 18 contributions, is ridiculous. However, to many, it still feels like it is not enough for him, even when you consider that it was his lowest Serie A minutes total since he became a starter.
Now, though, it seems unavoidable to suggest that Massimiliano Allegri may have solved the paradox that has clouded his situation for years.
Proof this season
So far this season, he has scored three goals, adding an assist against Roma at the weekend. This is only from four starts, and perhaps, it should have been more, too. Against Juventus, he missed two pretty decent chances, whilst stats show that he has missed four big chances, whilst also creating four for others.
Looking at it from a deeper aspect, he has averaged a contribution every 90 minutes this season for Milan, so far. If we compare this to his 25-contribution season, he is smashing that average, which was a goal or assist every 97 minutes.
Whilst we must remember his injury, the fact that there is no European football means that his minutes may end up being very similar come the end of the season, given there is not as much need to rest him over the season.
At his current rate, with 28 games still left to play, he would end the season with another 14 goals and another five assists. That would take his season to 17 goals with six assists, just shy of his best season, albeit with a better minute-to-contribution record.
Leao, as of now, is probably not the final product. Luka Modric and Massimiliano Allegri feel that he has even further potential, and perhaps he will cement himself as one of the best in the world, rather than being someone who could be.
For now, though, we can simply enjoy the fact that Leao seems to have a new role and responsibility, and he is relishing it. Milan may have finally got lucky in the Leao management lottery, and that adds millions to his value.
In the meantime, consider checking a real prizesweeps casino if you feel that, like the Rossoneri may have, it is a year of luck for you.