Leao reveals how Allegri has ‘changed everything’ at Milan | OneFootball

Rafael Leao has told the press that “everything has changed” at Milan with the arrival of new head coach Massimiliano Allegri, as he claims that “this year Milan will be a real team.”

Speaking ahead of Thursday’s pre-season friendly against Perth Glory, with quotes via Gazzetta.it, the Portuguese winger was also complimentary of the Rossoneri fans that have turned out in support of the club in Australia: “There really are a lot of them and you can feel their support. It is very nice for us to play in this condition. We are very happy to have received this welcome and we will try to repay the fans with a good performance against Perth.”

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE – JULY 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan is challenged by Ethan Nwaneri of Arsenal during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal FC and AC Milan at National Stadium on July 23, 2025 in Singapore. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)

Leao: ‘Allegri an experienced coach; everything has changed at Milan’

After praising the fans in Australia, Leao went on to answer a question about the current state of the team, claiming that “We have an experienced coach who has already won here at Milan.” Leao continued, “We are a young group, with a few experienced players who have been here for a long time. We are building the team, with the right spirit that helps even when we are not playing well.”

The former Sporting and Lille forward also revealed that “Everything has changed compared to the past. I feel that this year Milan will be a real team. We have important players who can make the difference but, above all, there will be a great team spirit.”

SINGAPORE, SINGAPORE – JULY 23: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan looks on prior to the Pre-Season Friendly match between Arsenal FC and AC Milan at National Stadium on July 23, 2025 in Singapore. (Photo by Yong Teck Lim/Getty Images)

Milan look to Allegri to usher in new era

It is clear that Milan are trying to do things differently, perhaps taking a more sensible approach to the way they manage their squad and conduct business.

Allegri joined the club this summer alongside former Lazio sporting director Igli Tare and the club have worked on some sensible acquisitions. Samuele Ricci looks to be settling in well at the club whilst the Rossoneri continue their search for a new centre-forward.

With Santiago Gimenez still on holiday, Leao has been playing in the central attacking role. In the meantime, the club have been linked with a move for Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.