AC Milan and Juventus played to a 0-0 draw on Sunday, a result that would typically satisfy the Rossoneri. However, missed opportunities by Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao left Milan ruing their chances to take all three points.
Leao entered as a substitute around the 60th minute, continuing his recovery from an injury that sidelined him for the first six weeks of the season. The Portuguese winger had been out since leaving Milan`s Coppa Italia match against Bari in August after just 17 minutes.
Though still regaining fitness, Leao appears to be a critical missing piece for manager Massimiliano Allegri`s Milan squad. If the dynamic forward can rediscover his form and confidence, it could significantly boost Milan`s hopes of contending for the Serie A title this season.
Leao Shows Flashes But Lacks Finishing Touch
Shortly after coming on, Leao attempted an audacious shot from the halfway line after spotting the Juventus goalkeeper off his line. While the effort went just over the bar, it displayed Leao`s typical flair and self-assurance.
However, Leao`s next two major involvements highlighted his current lack of sharpness. With about 20 minutes remaining, he scuffed a close-range shot wide after being found unmarked at the back post by a Pulisic cross. Then in the final minute, Leao failed to fully control an excellent through ball from Luka Modric before firing a tame shot that was easily saved.
Leao Must Deliver on Potential in New Milan Era
Since arriving from Lille in 2019, Leao has been a key figure for Milan. He was instrumental in their 2021-22 Scudetto triumph and followed that with a career-best 15 league goals in 2022-23. However, the past two seasons have seen inconsistent production, with just 17 goals in his last 70 Serie A appearances.
For a player regularly linked with Europe`s top clubs, Leao will be hoping to return to his best form. With Allegri now managing Milan and the club making notable summer signings like Luka Modric, there is optimism for a new successful era. Leao rediscovering his attacking prowess could be the final piece to elevate Milan into true title contenders once again.