Leao wants to kickstart new Milan deal ‘with a win’ and praises Ibrahimovic | OneFootball

Rafael Leao recently signed his renewal with AC Milan and can now focus fully on performing on the pitch. He can get off to a good start tonight, as the Rossoneri will take on Hellas Verona, and he spoke to the media pre-game.

Leao’s renewal was announced by the club on Friday afternoon, confirming that the winger has signed a deal until 2028. He will earn €5m plus bonuses per year and there will also be a €175m release clause (only valid in July).

Speaking to MilanTV ahead of the game, as cited by MilanNews, Leao shared his thoughts on the game and what it would be like to score this evening. Of course, it could be the perfect start to five new years.

If the renewal is a relief…

“Yes, I was anxious to resolve this situation. Milan already knew what they wanted to do, my intention was to agree, it took us a while but it ended well for everyone: fans, family and me. I’m calmer now.”

The last game of the season, which comes after the good news of your renewal. Are you expecting a few more cheers from the fans?

“As always, as in every game. It’s the last of the season, there’s this good news… I’m happy, I’m confident I’ll do well. It’s important to finish with a win and if possible score a goal (laughs).”

How much will you look for the goal?

“I don’t think I have to do it necessarily, the most important thing has to be to win and have a good night. Even for Zlatan, a player and a very important person. He made history here at Milan, we want to give him this gift.”

On Pioli…

“He was very important to me, he made me the player I am today, I’m more mature. I have to thank him.”

Stefano Pioli has decided to make zero changes to the XI for this one, as we have seen in the last few weeks. The gaffer, one can only presume, thus wants a strong finish to the season.