GdS: Never to now – why Allegri opted to trust Leao from the penalty spot

Rafael Leao has never been a penalty taker, but this weekend, he needed to be. With the pressure on, though, he delivered for AC Milan.

In recent years, the lineup from the spot has gone to others. Christian Pulisic, Santiago Gimenez, Theo Hernandez, Tammy Abraham. Never Leao. It seemed at one point that this may have continued on Sunday, but it didn’t.

Leao’s moment

As Gazzetta dello Sport writes, for a long time, it seemed like Youssouf Fofana may have been the man to take the spot kick. Especially with him taking the ball into the area, and guarding the spot whilst the referee consulted with his team.

However, when the penalty was confirmed, Leao stepped forward, taking the ball from Fofana after a quick conversation, and dispatched the ball home.

Until that point, he had never been the penalty taker, as the report writes, at least not for the Rossoneri. Yet, his attempt was perfect, like that of a seasoned professional. Mature, cool, calm, collected. Decisive.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

Allegri spoke after the game, stating that the decision was made in advance, with Fofana only standing as a protector. Perhaps, even, to soak up the pressure from San Siro and the Fiorentina players.

Whatever the reason was, it worked, and with it, the Portuguese star has returned to that mantle that has been waiting for him.

Allegri’s impact on Leao is showing; he is keen for him to be the centre-piece, and from 12 or 25 yards, the star is proving to be decisive.