Bartesaghi brands Leao ‘special’ and admits confidence is rising: “I have the trust of the team”

Davide Bartesaghi has branded Rafael Leao a ‘special player’, and admitted he has been working on being more vocal on the field.

Milan started the new year the same way that they ended 2025: with a very important win and a clean sheet, this time away against Cagliari. The only goal of the match came earlier in the second half as Rafael Leao fired in a cut-back from Adrien Rabiot, putting the Rossoneri top for the time being.

The build-up to the game was marred by uncertainties regarding who would be fit to start, and Bartesaghi was at the centre of these doubts. Strahinja Pavlovic was battling flu so it was uncertain whether he would play wing-back or centre-back.

He started with the latter, then shifted to the former. Bartesaghi spoke to Sky after the final whistle to offer his assessments following another important three points and a well-earned clean sheet. His comments were transcribed by MilanNews.

You appeared confident and composed again…

“I think about speaking on the pitch. I have the trust of the team and the staff: I always try to respond 100%.”

What has Allegri given you?

“As I said before, I have the trust of the team and the coach: all I have to do is thank them and continue to do so with a clear head.”

Is Leao a special player?

“He’s certainly a special player and always has been. He always tells me I have to assist him – I can’t tell you how long it will take, but it will come…”