"Leao is divisive, no doubt about that, he can do more, and we're in agreement on that too. How would you rate his performance as a striker in Cremonese-Milan? The missed goals leave a negative mark in the memory, but a forward on the pitch has to get involved. If you evaluate the player from every angle, you start to notice the changes, the growth - as a footballer, he's better than he was a year ago."
"He linked up play with his back to goal in a clean way, he's always been a constant outlet to help the team build up and develop attacks. In this specific case, he then follows up and attacks the back line with a decisive run into the box. At 9:20 on the clock, he repeats what he did a few seconds earlier, a new run into the box to attack the line and the goal, with the right timing."
Rafael Leao's transition to centre-forward generates significant debate regarding whether the position suits his playing style. Against Cremonese, Leao's performance included both a missed 1v1 chance and a late tap-in, exemplifying the striker's inconsistency. Analysis reveals Leao functioning as a complete forward through multiple tactical sequences. He demonstrates improved back-to-goal link-up play, consistently serving as an outlet for team buildup and attack development. Additionally, Leao executes decisive runs into the box with proper timing, pressing into dangerous areas. While his output remains judged by goals, his overall involvement and tactical positioning show measurable growth compared to previous seasons, suggesting adaptation to the No.9 role despite concerns about limiting his natural speed and dribbling abilities.
Read at SempreMilan
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