A “proud” Rafael Leao understood how wonderful Milan are thanks to Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Paolo Maldini, but the Portuguese foreigner also praised Olivier Giroud and Christian Pulisic: “I don’t even want to look at them. “
Leao contributed to Milan’s 3-1 win over Slavia Prague in the second leg of the Europa League round of 16 on Thursday with a fine shot from outside the box.
Leao now has ten goals and ten assists in all competitions this season, so Sky Sport asked him after the game if this was the most productive time for him in 2023-24.
“I think so; I get on well with Giroud and Pulisic. I feel smart and the whole team feels smart,” he quoted Milannews as saying.
“My job is for the team, even when I’m not scoring or assisting. I’m pleased with myself, but the whole team is fine.
How important is Stefano Pioli to him?
“Like I say, he’s the user who’s helping me the most,” Leao replied.
“Over the past three years, he’s figured out how to help me make a difference. It’s a good time, thanks to him as well.
Leao didn’t play much on the wing against Slavia.
“He’s in the game,” the striker admitted.
“Sometimes I can stay on the band; Other times I have to play in the middle. I’m 24 years old, I feel the game better. I’m in tune with Pulisic and Giroud. I don’t even have to look at them because I already know where they are in the box.
“And then there’s Theo, who is an additional weapon. They all help me become a better player, and Pioli puts me at ease and says, “Get out on the pitch and have fun. “
Are there any clubs to choose from in Friday’s Europa League quarter-final draw?
“No, but we know we’re going to play against some big clubs,” Leao replied.
“The goal is always the same. We need to go as far as possible in the competition.
How “Milanist” do you feel?
“100 percent, that’s obvious,” he said.
“I’m lucky to have Ibra, a champion who helped me. He didn’t show me the qualities I had, but he made me understand what Milan meant. He and Maldini made me understand how great Milan is. When I was a kid, I used to watch the Milan champion and when you’re here, it’s another story. I’m proud to play for this club and I’m satisfied here.
Leao signed a contract extension at the Stadio Meazza until June 2028 last summer and has a €175 million clause included in his deal with the Rossoneri. The 24-year-old has scored 53 goals in 198 appearances for the Serie A giants.
This article was first published on Football Italia and was distributed with permission.
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