Former Sporting coach claims Rafael Leão was 'undoubtedly the best' | OneFootball

Earlier this month, Milan were able to land 20-year-old Portuguese striker Rafael Leão from Lille in a €28m deal after a fantastic eight-goal Ligue 1 campaign last season.

In his debut against Kosovan side Feronikeli, the Portugal youth international played fantastically and registered an assist on Fabio Borini’s goal.

Speaking to TMW, the striker’s former Sporting youth coach Tiago Fernandes says he expects nothing but the best from his former pupil.

“Rafael Leão has the talent to play in all the best European clubs,” he said.

“I met him when he was just 12-13 years old, training him in almost all of Sporting’s youth teams until his debut in the first team.

“Only Cristiano Ronaldo in Lisbon had his talent at that age, I guarantee you.

“Rafael is a number nine, he has always played there. He reminds me of Ronaldo ‘il Fenomeno’ for his speed, technique, and quality when he must be decisive.

“I have trained so many boys: he was undoubtedly the best. He can solve a game by himself.”

Milan will face Cesena this Saturday in their final friendly of the summer.