AC Milan`s recent 0-0 draw against Juventus, while typically a satisfactory outcome, left the Rossoneri with a sense of missed opportunity. Christian Pulisic`s penalty miss and Rafael Leao`s squandered chances meant Juventus probably felt more content with the result.
Leao`s appearance as a second-half substitute for Santiago Giménez marked his ongoing return from an injury that sidelined him for over a month. He had previously exited a Coppa Italia match against Bari in August after only 17 minutes and only recently made a brief comeback in a victory against Napoli.
Despite his current recovery phase, there`s a strong sentiment that the Portuguese attacker is the crucial element Massimiliano Allegri needs at Milan. Should Leao regain his previous form and confidence, AC Milan`s aspirations for the Scudetto could become significantly more achievable.
Leao`s Missed Opportunities Against Juventus Highlight Form Concerns
Shortly after entering the game, Rafael Leao showcased a glimpse of his characteristic flair, attempting an audacious shot from the halfway line. Noticing Juventus goalkeeper Michele Di Gregorio off his line, Leao tried a first-time effort that sailed over the bar, forcing the keeper into a desperate retreat.
However, Leao`s subsequent two key actions proved less successful for the Portuguese star.
Approximately twenty minutes remained when Milan orchestrated a promising attack near the Juventus box. Christian Pulisic delivered a precise pass to Leao, who was unmarked at the far post. Disappointingly, Leao mishit his close-range shot, sending it wide of the goal.
In the dying moments of the match, midfield maestro Luka Modric threaded a superb pass to Leao. Yet, the forward struggled to bring the ball under control and his subsequent shot was weak, easily saved by Di Gregorio, as the game concluded goalless.
The Pressure Mounts: Leao Must Reignite Milan`s Attack
Rafael Leao has been a fundamental player for AC Milan for six years, joining the club from Lille in 2019.
Following his brilliant performance in the 2021-22 season, where he was instrumental in the Rossoneri securing the Scudetto, Leao continued his impressive run with a personal best of 15 league goals in the 2022-23 campaign.
Nevertheless, the subsequent two seasons have seen a dip, marked by inconsistent performances. While he led the league in assists during the 2023-24 season, his goal tally stands at only 17 goals in his last 70 league appearances for the Rossoneri.
For a player frequently rumored to be a target for Europe`s top clubs each transfer window, this output is undoubtedly below expectations.
With Massimiliano Allegri now leading Milan, a new chapter appears to be unfolding. The club undertook a summer overhaul, shedding underperforming players and recruiting promising talents, notably the experienced midfielder Luka Modric, who has excelled since joining from Real Madrid.
Possessing a strong midfield and a solid defense, Milan`s primary need is enhanced attacking prowess. Santiago Giménez has struggled to live up to expectations since his transfer from Feyenoord last season, placing a significant burden on attacking midfielders like Christian Pulisic.
During summer pre-season friendlies, Allegri deployed Leao as a central striker, filling in for Giménez who was on vacation. This indicated the coach`s tactical vision to utilize the ex-Lille player at the heart of the attack, a strategy that has not yet been fully implemented.
It is now imperative for Leao to fully regain his physical condition and self-belief. Milan`s key player is called upon once more to inspire the Rossoneri faithful and play a pivotal role in ushering in a new era of success for the esteemed Italian club.
