Rafael Leão has not yet managed to put himself Sérgio Conceição in the pocket. While AC Milan continues its way in the Italian Cup with a qualification at the expense of AS Rome (3-1) in the quarterfinals this Wednesday, the Portuguese left winger was only entitled about twenty minutes of play.
The reason? The Portuguese technician wanted to spare his player, recently recovered from a muscle injury that occurred in early January. But that did not prevent him from sending a clear message to his star attacker. Indeed, Conceição expects more involvement on the part of Leão, especially in defensive work and collective efforts.
Conceição and Shevchenko challenge Leão
“He has incredible qualities, but he must understand that work without balloon is as important as work with. He must understand that he is part of a collective and that he must constantly work for the team. I understand that it is not easy for him to get out of his comfort zone, to do what many do not necessarily pay attention to, but it is essential for me. He can become a player of a completely different level if he agrees to do what we tell him and what we work every day ”said Conceição at a press conference.
Declarations which are reminiscent of those of Andriy Shevchenko, the former glory of the Lombard club, which also criticized a lack of commitment from the former Lille, but also a lack of regularity.
“It's always the same thing … If Leão wants to be an important player and mark the story of Milan, he must do much more. I do not question his qualities in question, but he is not a leader. He can become so if he assumes his responsibilities. The real question is: does he want to be? »»launched the 2004 golden ball in an interview with The Stampa.
