“Rafael Leão booed again by the Milan fans.”

Rafael Leão faces relentless boos from AC Milan fans at San Siro! The Portuguese forward, who has been a controversial figure in the closing stages of the season, was once again confronted with the fury of his own supporters during the home defeat against Juventus, an incident that is igniting social media and dividing opinions in Italy.

This Sunday, in the historic clash between Milan and Juventus, Leão was substituted in the 80th minute for Christopher Nkunku, at which point the rossoneri fans did not hesitate to express their discontent with thunderous boos, repeating the scenario that had occurred two weeks earlier against Udinese, a match that ended in a humiliating 3-0 defeat for the Milanese.

Footage captured at the Giuseppe Meazza shows a visibly uncomfortable Leão walking the entire length of the pitch to the bench, where coach Massimiliano Allegri, in an attempt to calm the atmosphere, greeted the player with a high five and words of encouragement: “Well done.” However, the coach’s gesture was not enough to silence the fans, who continue to demand more from their idol.

It is important to highlight that the Portuguese forward has not scored in Serie A since March 1, which weighs heavily on the patience of Milan supporters. Despite this, Leão has still stood out in decisive moments, such as when he assisted Adrien Rabiot for the winning goal against Hellas Verona last week, and also in the match against Juventus, where he created a superb opportunity for Alexis Saelemaekers, which ultimately hit the post.

This situation places Leão’s future at Milan under immense pressure, in a club that is fighting to secure a place in European competitions and cannot afford to see its main star experiencing a drop in form and in conflict with the fanbase.

Rafael Leão, an undeniable talent but increasingly contested, is at the center of a drama that promises to shake up the transfer market and the upcoming season in Italian football. The challenge for the Portuguese player is clear: to prove with goals and performances that he deserves the trust of the club and the fans, before the criticism turns into an uncontrollable storm.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.