Andriy Shevchenko has once again stressed his opinion that Rafael Leao is not a striker, while AC Milan are outsiders for the title in his eyes.
If anyone knows what it means to be a centre-forward at Milan it is Shevchenko, given that he is one of the most prolific goal scorers in the club’s modern era, and he lifted the Ballon d’Or following his heroics for the Rossoneri on the biggest stages.
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The Ukrainian has given an interview to La Repubblica (via Calciomercato.com) which was published today, and he addressed a number of different topics related to how his former club are doing.
What do you think of Allegri using Leao as a striker?
“In my opinion, Leao is not a striker. Centre-forward is not his natural role. He was asked by the coach and the club to take on this role. In some games he did well, in other games less so.
“When a player changes roles, you have to give him time, especially during the season and in such important matches. He may make mistakes in some games, but you have to see his willpower: if he wants to help the team right now, then that’s fine.
“At Milan today, the only one who can fill that role is him. He may make mistakes in games, that’s fine, but he must never let his attitude slip.”
There was some controversy about his reaction to being taken off against Lazio…
“It’s happened to me too in my career: nerves can get tense during a match. You can get angry. The important thing is to clarify things with the coach immediately afterward. It happened to me with Ancelotti too, but we cleared things up right away and there were no problems afterward.”
Can Leao and Pulisic work together up front?
“I think they have to adapt to each other. The truth is that players have to give their best for the team and adapt. The team is always more important than the individual. A player must also be ready to take on a different role and do everything for the team.”
How do you see the title race?
“Inter certainly have a deeper squad and players of a different caliber, and they have the advantage. However, I think Milan are having an excellent season.
“The win against Torino was an important step, and Allegri managed to recharge the team after the defeat to Lazio. If Milan win their next matches, they can put pressure on Inter.
“I think the season is decided game by game. If Milan can stay close to Inter, then things can really get going again. But right now, Inter’s only chance is to lose the Scudetto.”
It is not the first time that Shevchenko has expressed some concern about Leao being used as a striker. It is also not a secret that Milan seem to be in the market for a top centre-forward ahead of the summer window, with many different names already linked.
You’re wrong Sheva, just ask people around here.
😂😂😂😂
Sheva, the most honest of them all.
As clear as night and day, Leao ain’t no striker.