GdS: ‘He wants to play’ – Allegri holding Leao back with plan in mind for his return

Rafael Leao’s season has been rather hit and miss, and AC Milan have not been able to profit from the star’s talent. However, it has been due to injuries, rather than misperformance.

In previous seasons, there have been frustrations about Leao and his contributions to the team. Unfortunately, this year is no different, but the reasons have changed. Rather than failing to hit the levels expected of him, he has just been unavailable.

Of course, he came off the bench this weekend, but it was only his 13th Serie A appearance of the season, and he has played less than 850 minutes in the league. Now, though, he is pushing to return as a starter.

Issue persists

Gazzetta dello Sport, as seen below, recalls the words of Massimiliano Allegri, that Leao has not been in ‘top form’, and of course, he is referring to the abductor problem which has troubled him in recent weeks.

There have been a lot of games recently, so this definitely plays a part of things. However, with him ‘unable’ to perform at his best level, the Italian is being cautious to avoid risking a longer lay-off, which is also why his minutes have been lessened.

The Leao paradox

At present, the Portuguese is perhaps at his most deadly in his career. He is still having an impact, even when not at his best level, which also creates problems. He is pushing to return and ‘wants to play’, but even he knows his limits currently.

As is probably imagined, he will always make himself available where possible, even with gritted teeth. However, Allegri now has the ability to rotate and allow him to rest. He makes an impact, but he is not the only one capable of doing so, with Niclas Fullkrug and Christopher Nkunku back in the mix.

When he is back to his best, there will be no questions asked. For now, though, it is a case of waiting for him to be back to his best and Allegri will give his situation time, rather than rushing him back.