GdS: ‘Up to Rafa’ – Leao must silence critics after doubt-filled break

AC Milan left the club football period on the back of a draw with Juventus. From that game, Rafael Leao stuck out more than a missed penalty.

With Leao returning from an injury, there was always going to be a period of getting back into the swing of things. Additionally, he is only just learning how to play in Massimiliano Allegri’s system; there have been bumps in the road for others.

Despite this, Leao has come into the team with immediate expectations to be 100% up to speed. Whilst unrealistic, his contract demands that of him, as does his known quality. However, he missed two big chances, and that has gotten everyone talking.

International break but no break

As Gazzetta dello Sport (via MilanNews) wrote this morning, it was likely going to be the case that the Portuguese dominated the international break. Yet, the never-ending talk, or better yet, criticisms of him, are still a bit of a shock.

After 38 days sidelined, he came on against Napoli (after two training sessions), where the Rossoneri were down to 10 men, then against Juventus with a full week of training in the bank. In both games, he did not really excel. However, it was ‘unthinkable’ to expect as much.

No defence

No one is defending Leao, though. Massimiliano Allegri is considering a rethink of his strategy, and whilst the Diavolo are not at an extreme point with their viewing of him, he needs to do more and it needs to be soon.

Photos: Paul Kane + Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

It is his turn, now, to put in the work and prove himself. He is ready to work, and returning to Milanello on the same day he returned from international duty proves as much. Showing up and performing is different, though.

Everyone needs Leao to perform, and so does he. Time will only tell with the Portuguese; a difficult situation, but not an impossible one to solve.