Allegri confirms Leao ‘is not in great shape’ ahead of Milan vs. Lecce

Massimiliano Allegri has provided an update on Rafael Leao’s condition, following a couple of appearances during which he hasn’t looked top-notch. 

It’s been a rather strange season for Leao. While eight goals and two assists would suggest something else, Milan’s No.10 has struggled to find his groove with the team. For example, he did brilliantly with the assist for Adrien Rabiot against Como, but none of his other actions were successful.

In many ways, it’s the complete opposite of what we have become used to seeing from Leao, now providing concrete contributions rather than ‘flashy’ ones. That said, these struggles might have something to do with his physical status.

Allegri requests improvement

Leao has missed eight games through injury this season and famously played at 50-60% against Cagliari due to this. His physical status allows him to be decisive in the box, but when it comes to the trademark runs down the left flank, it’s not as easy.

During his press conference earlier today, Allegri was asked about how far the forward can go and made it clear that the physical issues are currently holding him back…

“Where he will end up depends on him. It’s normal for a player like Leao to be decisive. However, he needs to improve his physical condition, because today he’s available but he’s not in great shape,” the manager stated.