Rafael Leão faces boos, but he can be reborn at Milan.

Rafael Leão under heavy fire at Milan: boos at San Siro and doubts about his future raise a storm at the rossonero club. After three consecutive defeats without scoring, culminating in a humiliating 0-3 home loss to Udinese, the Portuguese international is facing the worst phase of his career at the Italian club. The pressure from fans, who have already booed him at the iconic stadium, along with rumors of a possible departure next summer, place Leão at the center of a growing controversy.

But not all is lost for the 24-year-old forward. Serginho, former Brazilian full-back and Milan icon, sheds a light of hope in an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport. “In the last 18 months, Leão has not always managed to show his enormous potential,” he admits, but recalls that “San Siro is a demanding stadium but has also cheered for him many times when he shone.” For Serginho, the boos can serve as an “extra incentive” for the Portuguese “to prove his worth until the end of the season.” A decisive goal, especially against a heavyweight opponent like Juventus, could “rekindle the fans’ love” for Leão, emphasizes the former player.

Serginho also points to a tactical factor that has hindered the forward’s performance: the 3-5-2 system implemented by Massimiliano Allegri. “It’s a formation that strengthens the team and values many players, but not forwards like Leão,” he explains. “He and Pulisic are attacking wingers who need space to play in one-on-one situations, to cross or shoot. Playing with their back to goal is not ideal for them.” The Brazilian emphasizes that the Portuguese “has sacrificed himself by accepting to play as a center forward,” a position that is not his natural one. Despite this, “in some games he has performed well and scored,” but “it is clear that it is not his preferred role.”

Milan is now facing a decisive final stretch of the season, fighting to secure a place in the Champions League, a top priority after the disappointment of finishing 8th last season. The clash with Juventus in the 34th round is the biggest test for the Rossoneri until the end of the championship. For Rafael Leão, this could be the golden opportunity to turn the tide, silence the critics, and regain the confidence that once placed him among the best young forwards in Europe. The eyes of San Siro, and all of Italy, will be on him.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.