Rafael Leao is about to become a father and has promised a different attitude on the pitch. He spoke about it to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“When I was a kid, I liked to take on opponents and assist. I watched Xavi and Iniesta, and that’s why I’m not selfish. My favorites were Ronaldinho and Manchester United’s Cristiano Ronaldo. They made incrediple plays and passes. I see myself the same way, as I bring something different to the table.”
“Football only consists of numbers now. They are important, but they don’t valorize talent. Who can’t complete a pass but bags 30 goals is placed above others. However, this sport also means putting on a show and win. I want to score more but will try to do both things. I can adapt and be closer to the striker. However, teams clog that space more nowadays. I need room and to be able to see the whole pitch. Zlatan Ibrahimovic wants me to be fiercer.”
Leao touted new Milan coach Paulo Fonseca.
“He’s a very direct person and makes what he wants clear. His teams have always played good-looking football, which is great for forwards. I’m comfortable with him, and my teammates are happy too. Practices are intense, and we always use the ball. I think we have already understood his ideas. Possession is in the fabric of this team.”
Leao dished on new teammates Alvaro Morata and Strahinja Pavlovic.
“We lost one champion in Olivier Giroud and signed another. He works hard and is mobile. He’ll help us, and we hope he’ll score a lot. The Serb is strong, fierce, and physical.”
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