Longoni backs Allegri’s stern approach to Leao dilemma: “It’s even his duty”

Massimiliano Allegri has been stern with Rafael Leao at the start of the season, which Andrea Longoni argues is simply the manager doing his duty. 

Leao has been widely discussed among the Milan fans since the game against Juventus. The No.10 missed two good chances, one of which was a 1v1 with the keeper, and he didn’t look all that convincing in the defensive phase either.

This season has been described as a make-or-break one for the former Lille man, who needs to show that he can perform consistently. Furthermore, the work rate is something Allegri is hoping to ‘fix’, but ultimately everything hinges on the player himself.

In his latest editorial for MilanNews, Andrea Longoni shared his thoughts on the Leao situation. While some might see Allegri’s treatment as harsh, the journalist believes the manager is simply doing his duty: trying to get the best out of Leao.

“The Leao chapter. Many fans are outraged by this issue, acting as if it’s treason to even talk about. In reality, it’s the key issue for Milan. The team’s season could depend on the Portuguese’s performance.

“Allegri, who gets angry with Rafa, does so because he expects much more from him. It’s legitimate, it’s even his duty. Extracting more value from Leao is possible; there’s no doubt that there’s still a lot of untapped potential.

“We’re talking about a student who gets a 7 on his report card, but who could aim for a 9. If he raises his level, the team will automatically improve as well,” he writes.