Rafael Leão, the prodigy of AC Milan, reveals the secrets of his preparation for the much-anticipated derby against Inter Milan, and his statements about Zlatan Ibrahimovic promise to shake up the football world. The young Portuguese forward, who has been one of the stars of the Rossoneri team, does not hesitate to say that he avoids going out during the week leading up to this explosive clash. In an interview with CBS Sports, Leão not only spoke about the healthy pressure that Ibrahimovic exerts on the players but also highlighted the importance of concentration during this decisive period.
During the conversation, Leão recalled a memorable episode with Ibrahimovic, who is now a consultant for RedBird and was his teammate. “In a training session, some young players from the junior team participated, and after losing a game, Zlatan was furious. He immediately went to the coach and said, ‘This is the last time they come to training.’ They never came back,” Leão revealed. For the forward, this pressure is a positive thing: “It’s good pressure because when they talk to you, it’s because they care. For me, it was a good lesson, even if he is demanding, perhaps even too much.”
The relationship between the two is strong, with Leão stating: “We have a good relationship. He asks about my family, and I feel he has helped me a lot. He is someone I want to keep in my life, even off the pitch. I know that if I need something, I can call him.”
Leão, who was instrumental in winning the Serie A title in 2021-22 and was also named the league’s best player, does not hide his surprise at receiving the award: “I didn’t expect it. When we received the trophy, a team member told me that I might have been the best player in the league, and ten minutes later, it was confirmed. Winning the Scudetto and being the best player in the same year was something incredible.”
This year, Leão has been facing a new phase in his career, playing as a centre forward under the guidance of coach Massimiliano Allegri. “I was prepared. When the coach said I could play in that position, I was ready to help the team. Football nowadays is about numbers; if you want to be among the best, you have to show results,” he explained.
The Portuguese international also commented on his evolution: “The first year was not easy for me and my family. It was a process, but I feel happy to be seen as a role model within the team. I feel the love from the fans.” Despite his relaxed style on the pitch, Leão defends his way of playing: “I can’t change who I am. I’ve always been this way, with a smile on my face. It’s how I express my passion for football.”
With Milan currently in a competitive position in the standings, preparations for the derby are intense. “I don’t go out. I have a family dinner, but then I stay home. It’s a crazy week. Everyone is trying to get tickets, there’s enormous pressure in the media. It’s a lot to take into account, so I need to focus and save energy,” said Leão. He describes the derby as the “best game of the season,” emphasizing the emotional importance of the clash.
Leão also commented on his partnership on the pitch with Christian Pulisic, who, due to injuries, has not yet had the opportunity to shine alongside the Portuguese frequently this season. “We know how to play with each other. Unfortunately, we’ve had some injuries, but when he’s on the pitch, I feel he can do something special,” he concluded.
As the derby approaches, Milan fans are eagerly awaiting another dazzling performance from Rafael Leão as he prepares to make history in the rivalry between the two great teams of Milan.
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