Rafael Leao must turn down a transfer from Milan as former Rossoneri player and manager Filippo Inzaghi fears he will become “one of the many” at Manchester City or Real Madrid.
The Portuguese international has been an integral part of Milan’s success in Serie A last year and continues to perform well this season.
This led to Leao being linked with a move to one of Milan’s heavyweight rivals across Europe, and Chelsea were also among those who were thought to be pursuing him.
With only 18 months left on his contract, reports suggested that Leao could leave in January, but Inzaghi begged the 23-year-old to stay, suggesting he could become one of their greatest players of all time.
“If I were him, I would stay,” he told Corriere della Sera. “For me, Milan has always been the best. Wear this shirt, play the San Siro.
“A few years ago, you might have thought about aiming for something more prestigious. But now they [have] won the Scudetto [are] in the Champions League.
“Leao is strong, but he can be even stronger. I hope he will be convinced [to remain]. Here he can be the main character, in the center of the project.
“The risk is that at City or Real Madrid he will be one of many. I would advise him to become Milan’s flag bearer, something unique.”
To a great 2023, Rossoneri!
Now tell us, what is your New Year resolution?Until 2023, Rossoneri!
Qual è il vostro augurio for il nuovo anno?
#SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/ONUo3b9V1r— Milan (@acmilan) December 31, 2022
Milan have been hard at work defending their title this season and in 2023 are eight points behind leaders Napoli, who are in danger of being relegated to the Scudetto.
Inzaghi still believes Stefano Pioli’s side have what it takes to make a difference and put up a battle at home and in Europe, where they will face Tottenham in the Champions League round of 16.
“Milan has a great coach. “They know very well what to do. Obviously Napoli moved at double speed, but I am convinced that the Rossoneri have what it takes to recover.”
