‘After the tantrums’ – Capello challenges Leao to ‘become a man’ | OneFootball

Fabio Capello has set a challenge for Rafael Leao after what has been a rough start to the season under Paulo Fonseca both on and off the pitch.

The main source of drama at Milan so far this season has been the perceived poor relationship between the new coach and two star players, Theo Hernandez and Leao.

Fonseca took the decision to drop them against Lazio and they were later introduced from the bench and made an immediate impact on the game.

Soon after they came on, there was a cooling break and Fonseca spoke to his players in a huddle. Hernandez and Leao declined to come over for the huddle and stood on the pitch themselves, which sent a pretty clear statement.

They later claimed that having just come on, they did not need water or more tactical instructions.

Speaking during an interview with Corriere della Sera (via Calciomercato.com), Capello suggested that Leao needs to grow up to fulfil his potential.

“Everything that happens at Milan seems to be Leao’s fault and he does everything he can to make this situation continue. However, he is the only one who can create danger. It’s time that after his tantrums, he becomes a man,” Capello said.

Capello also talked about Milan’s chances in the Champions League which gets underway very soon, but he was very pessimistic given the bad start to the season.

“I hope I’m completely wrong, but I see it as difficult because I’ve seen a team in too much difficulty so far. Nothing has changed compared to last year in terms of organisation. It will take a surge of pride from the players, they will have to show, after that foolishness in the last match by Leao and Theo, that they are a group. And that they can run. Because balance is the most important thing,” he said.