AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli has praised Rafael Leao by saying that the Portuguese forward raises the level that he plays at each season.
Talking to Sky Sport Italia ahead of the first home match of the season against Torino (via Milan News), the Milan coach spoke glowingly of Leao who will be No.10 and starts on the left wing at San Siro.
Having signed his new contract, it is a big season for Leao and he must repay the faith that has been shown in him by the club and the fans.
“He’s more mature, absolutely. Every year he gives something more and he’s raising the bar,” Pioli said.
Talking about the decision to start with the same eleven players that started the season opener away at Bologna, Pioli explained that he is seeking continuity from his team.
“I repeat the 11 from Bologna because we need to find the best possible mechanisms and we need to find continuity; there are some who arrived earlier, some later, it’s right to continue like this,” Pioli said.
In front of the home fans for the first time this season, Pioli described the San Siro as his teams ‘safe place’ where they receive so much support.
“I feel happy for the home opener. A safe place, where we feel supported with the desire to prove our worth,” he said.
