Rafael Leao isn't one to hold back. The Milan star has given a fascinating glimpse into life at the Rossoneri, revealing how Zlatan Ibrahimovic's intense approach shaped him and how he prepares for the biggest game of the season.
Speaking to CBS Sports, Leao shared a telling story about Ibra's legendary competitiveness. During one training session, youth players joined the squad for a practice match. When Zlatan's team lost, he marched straight to the coach with a blunt message: 'This is the last time they come to training.' They never returned.
"It's a good pressure, for me it was a good pressure," Leao explained. "Even if he's demanding, maybe too much." But the Portuguese winger sees the method behind the madness. When players like Ibrahimovic talk to you, it's because they care and want you to improve.
The relationship between the two remains strong. Ibrahimovic, now a RedBird advisor, still checks on Leao's family when they meet. "It's someone I want to keep in my life, also off the pitch," Leao said. "I know that if I need something, I can call him."
From Winger to Striker: Leao's New Role
This season has brought big changes for Leao. Under new manager Massimiliano Allegri, he's moved from the wing to play as a central striker. The switch seems to be working well for Milan's title challenge.
"When you play as a striker, you have more chances to score goals," Leao noted. "Football now is about numbers." He's right to focus on this, especially with Milan sitting second in Serie A, seven points behind Inter. For anyone looking at Milan's title odds, Leao's goal-scoring form in this new position could be crucial to closing that gap.
The Portuguese forward is refreshingly honest about his playing style too. Some critics have questioned whether his smiles and relaxed body language mean he lacks commitment. Leao won't have any of it. "I can't change myself," he insisted. "If I change it, it's not Rafael Leao."
Derby Week: Total Focus Required
When it comes to preparing for the Milan derby against Inter, Leao's approach is simple: stay home. "Don't go out," he said. "Everyone tries to get tickets, you see red, blue, people, and newspapers talking. It's just too much in that week."
The derby scheduled for the weekend of March 8 means everything to both sets of fans. Leao describes it perfectly: "It's about die or live. After the game, everyone will be talking for two or three weeks." The intensity is real, and the pressure is enormous.
For bettors watching the derby markets, Leao's words reveal just how much this game matters. With Milan chasing Inter in the title race, this isn't just bragging rights—it could define their entire season. Leao playing as striker adds an interesting dimension to goal-scoring markets too.
The 2021-22 season remains Leao's highlight at Milan. He won the Scudetto and was named Serie A's best player, though he admits he didn't see it coming. "To win the Scudetto and be the best player in the league in the same year, I never expected it," he reflected.
Partnership with Christian Pulisic has been limited by injuries this season, which is frustrating for Milan fans. "When he plays, and I'm on the pitch, I'm like: 'Yeah, Christian will do something,'" Leao said. Getting both stars fit and firing together could be key to Milan's run-in.
