Panucci’s First-Hand Account of Leão
One of the hottest topics of this Rossoneri summer revolves around Rafael Leão. Day after day, the Portuguese winger’s future remains shrouded in uncertainty: Is he training? Will he be fit for the season opener? Will he actually leave? Cristian Panucci, former AC Milan defender who accompanied the squad during the pre-season tour, has shed some light on the situation.
Panucci spent roughly fifteen days alongside Leão, observing him up close throughout the entire pre-season experience. His verdict is clear-cut — and, in some ways, surprisingly positive in the way it portrays the behaviour of Milan’s number 10.
Panucci’s Words: “He Still Lights Up the Pitch”
“I didn’t really know Rafa before, but he’s a guy who always has a smile on his face. He worked incredibly hard and was an absolute professional. In the friendlies, which didn’t go particularly well, he was still the one lighting things up,” said the former Rossoneri right-back.
Words that paint a picture of a Leão far removed from the stereotype of an uninterested or disengaged player. On the contrary, Panucci outlines the profile of an athlete fully committed to his daily work, respectful of everyone around him, cheerful and approachable. An “exemplary professional for those fifteen days,” he concludes.
The Transfer Situation: Leão Wants Out
Yet, this positive behavioural picture comes alongside a clear personal agenda: Leão wants to leave Milan. Panucci doesn’t hide it and reflects what appears to be the general feeling within the camp — the Portuguese forward has his mind set on a new destination, and the club could well grant his wish.
This is not, therefore, a case of a player being sidelined for disciplinary reasons or a drop in form. According to Panucci’s testimony, Leão trains with commitment and dedication, but is eager to start a new chapter in his career. An important distinction that puts into perspective some of the more critical narratives that have circulated in recent weeks.
Leão: A Talent Yet to Fully Express Itself
Rafael Leão joined Milan in 2019 from Lille, truly blossoming during the 2021-22 Scudetto-winning season with performances of the highest order. He was crowned Serie A MVP and cemented his reputation across Europe. Since then, however, his performances have been inconsistent, fuelling an ongoing debate about how decisive he can truly be for the Rossoneri.
As previously reported on CasaMilan, Leão sustained a muscular problem that cast doubt over his participation in the final pre-season friendlies and the opening league match against Torino. The situation continues to evolve and a definitive update on his physical condition is expected in the coming hours.
Whatever happens on the transfer front, Milan possess in Leão a player of rare, crystalline talent. And Panucci’s words — describing a smiling young man who “still lights things up” — remind us exactly why Rossoneri fans have loved him so deeply.
