MN: Can Milan say they are better without Leao – what the numbers and facts show

There have been claims that AC Milan were better without Rafael Leao this season. However, that feels like a difficult claim to agree with.

After the draw with Atalanta, Billy Costacurta made quite a bold claim: that Milan were ‘better’ without the Portuguese star on the pitch. He cited that the Rossoneri concede more with him in the team, and move away from a team of 11 players.

Milan better without Leao?

So, today, MilanNews took a look at the numbers of the season, and there is some truth to what he says.

Without Leao, the Rossoneri won three games and lost once (against Cremonese). In these games, they also conceded two goals, both in the loss. Then, since the Portuguese returned, they have won twice and drawn three times.

From a points perspective, it is the same, albeit with an extra game played. However, they have also conceded three more goals with him than they did without him. This is where we must add context, though.

With Leao back, they have faced Napoli, Juventus, Fiorentina, Pisa and Atalanta, a substantially more difficult set of opponents. Additionally, key players have been missing, which has certainly had an effect on things.

It is worth considering that only a week ago, Costacurta stated that Leao was ‘always a starter’, even if he admitted that he always needs to provide answers, otherwise others will come into his spot.