MN: Leao gearing up for post-break return – the big question mark that has emerged

Positive news arrived on Tuesday from Milanello regarding the condition of Rafael Leao, who is close to a full recovery.

As MilanNews recall, Leao sustained a calf injury in mid-August during the Coppa Italia match against Bari. The Portuguese winger continued his individual work yesterday, but everything is proceeding well and he is expected to return to full training next week.

The question mark

Massimiliano Allegri – after having done without Leao for the first two league games – will now have to decide where to play him against Bologna and beyond. Leao is absolutely central to the Livorno coach’s technical plan, although there is great curiosity to see in what position he will be deployed.

Much will depend on the formation the coach chooses: in the case of a 3-5-2, he would be deployed as a second striker alongside one of Christian Pulisic, Santiago Gimenez or the new arrival Christopher Nkunku.

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

In a 4-3-3, the Portuguese would start as usual on the left flank, but it is not excluded that he could also be deployed as a striker, with Nkunku on the left and Pulisic on the right in support. That would be more of a 3-4-2-1, thus taking a midfielder away.

Regardless of his position on the pitch, what is certain is that Rafa will be key to Allegri’s Milan, with the latter convinced that this could finally be the season of his definitive breakthrough. During pre-season, a different Leao was immediately seen, especially in terms of his attitude.

After the break, he will finally be able to return to the pitch, and the hope is that he can immediately inspire the Rossoneri once again with his special moments.