Leao: “Compared to the Past, Everything Has Changed. Milan Feels Like a Team”

Rafa Leao

  • Leao: “Compared to the past, everything has changed. We feel like a real team.”
  • Praises Allegri’s experience and the squad’s spirit
  • Highlights the support from Milan fans in Australia
  • Says the focus is on being ready for the start of the season

On the eve of the final match of Milan’s preseason tour in Australia, Rafael Leao spoke to the media ahead of the friendly against Perth Glory. The Portuguese forward reflected on the team’s preparation and the growing chemistry under coach Massimiliano Allegri.

“I expect a good match against a good team,” Leao said. “The coach explained how we need to attack and defend against them, but the most important thing is being ready for the start of the season. Whether it’s 45 or 90 minutes, we must give our best and aim to win, but the real goal is to be in top shape when the league begins.”

Leao also praised the warm reception from Milan supporters in Australia. “There are a lot of fans here, and we feel their support. It’s amazing to play in these conditions. We’re happy with this welcome and want to repay the fans with a strong performance against Perth.”

Allegri in his first press conference since returning to Milan

On the influence of Allegri, Leao was clear: “We have an experienced coach who has already won here with Milan. We’re a young group, but we also have some experienced players who’ve been here for a while. We’re building the team with the right spirit, and that helps even when we don’t play well. Compared to the past, everything has changed. I feel that this year Milan will be a team. We have important players who can make a difference, but above all, there will be a strong team spirit.”

Asked about the potential return to Perth in February to face Como, Leao smiled: “It’s not official yet, so I can’t say much, but if we come back here, it would be great. We have many fans here and it would be beautiful.”

✨ Summarize this story instantly with AI:

ChatGPT logo ChatGPT Perplexity logo Perplexity Gemini logo Google AI Claude logo Claude Grok logo Grok