Leao: ‘Amorim is a very good coach, I will decide on Milan after World Cup’

Rafael Leao admits the arrival of Ruben Amorim could change his view of leaving Milan after scoring for Portugal. ‘He is a very good coach, I will make a decision after the World Cup.’

The winger has struggled to make his mark on the World Cup so far, as he was left out of the starting XI for both the opening 1-1 draw with RD Congo, and tonight’s 5-0 victory over Uzbekistan.

He did manage to get his name on the scoresheet this evening, concluding the rout with a ferocious first-time finish into the roof of the net after a roll across was intercepted.

Following the game, Leao spoke to DAZN Italia and was asked about his feelings, including a rapport with Milan that seems to be at breaking point.

“I have to celebrate this with my family, because it has been a difficult season for me,” said Leao.

“I had injuries and many other things in the mix, including the way Milan’s season went. I have to thank my family, who helped me through it, and this goal is for them.

“I put in so much work with my personal trainer, my teammates, and I have to thank the coach for having faith in me, because Portugal have so many talented players, so I’m very happy to be here.”

Much has been said about the way that Leao plays and his refusal to track back or help, but he hits back at criticism.

“I have to do this for myself, not for anyone else. I work for myself, my teammates and my coach. I’m happy that I was able to help my team, to have minutes on the pitch, it was important.”

Eventually, DAZN Italia asked about his future, seeing as Leao had said at the end of the season that his time with Milan was coming to a natural conclusion.

That was when Max Allegri was still at the helm, but now that he has been replaced by Portuguese boss Amorim, will that change his evaluation?

“At this moment, I need to stay focused on the World Cup. What I do know is that this is a very good coach, he did well in Portugal, it didn’t go the way he wanted at Manchester United, but he remains a great coach.

“I will make a decision after the World Cup.”

It was no secret that Leao was at loggerheads with Allegri, furious that he was used out of position as a centre-forward, then clashing with the coach following early substitutions.