Leao breaks his silence: the farewell to Milan is clear in the Portuguese star’s mind
Rafael Leão has said it before, he says it again, and now he explains why: he wants to leave AC Milan. The Portuguese winger, speaking to Sport TV in Portugal — with his statements also picked up by Milan News — has laid out his ambitions with a clarity that leaves little room for interpretation.
“I need a new challenge. I’ve already won two trophies in Italy, I’ve been here for 7 years. The league is evolving, but for my style of football, the Premier League or the Spanish Liga would showcase my talent better. If a Premier League opportunity came up, I’d be very happy.”
Blunt words from the 1999-born attacker, who for the first time has publicly mapped out an exit route from Milanello. England is his preferred destination, with the Premier League named as his declared dream, while the Spanish Liga remains a more than welcome alternative.
A difficult season and Leao’s explanations
The winger went on to explain the reasons behind a below-par season, admitting he played four to five months with a groin injury (pubalgia) and in a position that was not his own:
“It was a difficult season, we didn’t make the Champions League, I played injured for 4-5 months with pubalgia in a position that wasn’t mine. The tactical system didn’t help me — I felt I could make a difference but the way the team played didn’t put me in the right conditions to do so. In the end it becomes draining.”
Leão indirectly points the finger at the tactical decisions made by the coaching staff, who deployed him as a centre-forward rather than in his natural role as a left winger. A choice likely forced by his physical condition: with a groin injury, constant sprinting down the flank would have been unsustainable.
Seven years at Milan: a champion’s record
Despite the end-of-season controversy, Leão’s contribution to AC Milan remains extraordinary. Having arrived in the summer of 2019 from Lille, the Portuguese winger grew under Stefano Pioli’s guidance to become one of the best players in Europe in his position, helping the Rossoneri win the 2021-22 Serie A title. Two trophies in Italy, three seasons as a key figure in the Champions League: a truly high-level journey.
His market value remains very high. AC Milan, backed by a contract running until 2028, will sit at the negotiating table from a position of strength: anyone who wants the Portuguese star will need to come forward with a significant offer, likely in excess of €80-90 million.
What can Milan do without Leao?
The departure of Leão — should it materialise — would open up ambitious scenarios in the Rossoneri transfer market. The funds raised from his sale could allow the club to invest across multiple positions, significantly refreshing the squad and building a more balanced team around the new head coach.
The Milan of the future is built with ambition and vision. The departure of a champion like Leão, if handled well, can become the starting point for a new winning cycle. The club’s history shows that the most glorious seasons are often born out of moments of change.
