Rafael Leao is one of the hottest prospects on the AC Milan side. He joined the club in 2019 and won the Serie A in 2021–22. The Rossoneri failed to defend their title last season and were disappointing in their charge for back-to-back titles. However, there were some positive signs as some of the players developed, especially this 24-year-old Portuguese winger.
AC Milan signed a few players at the start of the current season. They brought in some midfield and attacking recruits. Rafael Leao has already cemented his place on the left side of the attack. The manager brought in players who could convert the chances created by Leao and also help the Portuguese register goals. With the season up and running, here is a look at why Leao is the biggest hope for AC Milan to bring the Scudetto back.
Skilful runner
Rafael Leao is known for his pace and skills. He likes to run down the flank, and he is supported by Frenchman Theo Hernandez. The above winger’s actions show that Leao likes to make full use of the width of the pitch and often finds his way to penetrate the opposition penalty box.
As mentioned earlier, Leao likes to penetrate the opposition penalty box and has done so a few times with his ability to progress with the ball. He has a 52.7% dribble success rate this season and attempts 3.92 crosses per 90 minutes. With players like Giroud in the box, Leao is always in with an assist or two.
These skills and impressive pace have allowed the player to win fouls in dangerous areas and trouble the defenders. Rafael Leao has won 14 fouls, and this even includes a penalty. Leao is always at the end of a challenge or two at the end of every match. He can also put the opposition player in danger of receiving a red card.
End product
The 24-year-old has already chipped in with one assist in the current season. His ability to stretch the defence and penetrate the box often allows a goal-scoring chance. The player has seven shot assists to his name, with most of them coming from low and high crosses attempted from the wide side.
Rafael Leao is just one goal behind Olivier Giroud in the goal-scoring chart. He has scored three goals in the first five matches for the Rossoneri. A total of 11 shots have been attempted, and five have been on target. Leao likes to come in and find the far post.
Last season, Leao scored 15 times and assisted eight times in Serie A. His season started on a high in 2023–24 and he will look to extend his good run. AC Milan are looking to win glory, and Leao is their biggest hope.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine
