There were some worries about Rafael Leao when he collapsed to the ground on pain at the end of the win over Bologna, but in actual fact it was a sign regarding the ‘new’ version of him we will see.
Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!
That is according to Tuttosport (via PianetaMilan) writes how Leao did not score or assist in the match at the Renato Dall’Ara, but he gave very important signals to his coach Stefano Pioli.
The run he made which ended with a shot hitting the post and the fact he suffered from cramp at the end of the game are signs that he gave everything for the cause, and the clues could say a lot about Pioli’s new indications for Rafa.
The new structure of Milan will also require Leao to apply himself on the defensive end and likely to cover more ground. Pioli himself was very happy with the Portuguese’s performance and with the fact he suffered from cramp.
“I’m very happy because it means that Rafa has given everything,” he said. In Bologna, Leao covered 9.843km. Last season, his average per game was 8.391km.
With Saelemaekers absent on the right, Leao too will have to lend a hand in the non-possession phase, because even with Pulisic or Chukwueze the team would be too unbalanced.
For this reason, the arrival of Okafor could be essential. Leao with Milan will also have to defend and will need minutes and games where he can have a break.
