Former striker Antonio Cassano harshly reviewed Rafael Leao’s contributions to Milan, claiming that the club ‘don’t have champions’.
The 24-year-old Portuguese winger is the standout star in Stefano Pioli’s squad and has performed well this term, netting three goals and providing two assists in their opening five Serie A matches, but despite that he’s been the focus of criticism in recent days.
Some pundits, like former coach Fabio Capello, feel that Milan revolve too much around Leao and that the winger doesn’t contribute enough to the team, either defensively or in build-up play.
Speaking on BoboTV via Calciomercato.com, Cassano weighed in on Leao’s star status at Milan and what he contributes.
“Leao is neither meat nor fish, he reminds me of Martial. Last year Nzola scored more goals than him. In the Champions League we need players with personality who can rock matches, but Milan don’t have champions.”
He also underlined his support for coach Pioli, who has also been targeted by criticism, saying: “He’s strong strong.”
Milan’s next games are against Cagliari, Lazio and Borussia Dortmund, pushing them to start performing quickly in order to stay close to league leaders Inter and put themselves in a good position in their Champions League group.