Leao opens up about Milan internal talks on last ‘crucial’ games | OneFootball

Rafael Leao came off the bench to make the difference and secure all three points for Milan in a match that had become complicated after Vitinha’s early opener for Genoa.

Initially left out of the starting XI, the Portuguese star was brought on midway through the first half to replace the injured Youssouf Fofana — a decision by coach Sergio Conceiçao that ultimately proved decisive.

GENOA, ITALY – MAY 5: Rafael Leao of Milan looks on during the Serie A match between Genoa and AC Milan at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on May 5, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

After the match, Leao revealed that the Milan squad had held internal discussions, underlining the importance of collecting points in Serie A despite their slim chances of securing European qualification.

Leao: Milan players showed they can make the difference

“We talked among ourselves and said these last few games are crucial to picking up as many points as possible,” Leao told DAZN after the match.

“The coach changed the formation, and we’re more compact now — I think we’ve only conceded two goals in the last few matches.”

It was a deflected Leao shot that brought the Rossoneri level, and just moments later he squared the ball for Joao Felix — though his cross instead deflected off Morten Frendrup and into Genoa’s net.

“I’m happy — everyone here works every day to help the team,” the forward continued.

GENOA, ITALY – MAY 5: Milan players celebrate after Morten Frendrup of Genoa’s own-goal during the Serie A match between Genoa and AC Milan at Stadio Luigi Ferraris on May 5, 2025 in Genoa, Italy. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)

“We showed that today — one of our teammates got injured, and the players who came on made the difference.

“Every match, I try to help the team, whether I start or come off the bench. Even Gabbia always gives me confidence — sometimes he yells at me!

“We’re all locked in and trying to give our best. Of course, we want to win a trophy, but there’s still one more game to go.”