Stefano Pioli praised Rafael Leao during his post-match press conference on Monday: ‘It’s the first time he’s had cramps.’
The Rossoneri started the new Serie A campaign with a 2-0 win over Bologna at the Stadio Dall’Ara on Monday.
Pioli praised Rafael Leao during his interview with DAZN after the final whistle and continued complimenting the Portuguese striker during his post-match press conference.
“I am so happy because I think it’s the first time Leao has had cramps. When you have cramps, it means you gave your all. I don’t want to see players return home saying ‘Mister I am not tired, I can still give something.’ I want players who need to be subbed off because they have cramps.
“Rafa has superpowers but can have cramps too if he runs for the whole game.”
The Portugal international was exhausted and kicked the ball away immediately after the final whistle, lying on the ground due to fatigue.
Leao played his first competitive game with Milan’s No.10 shirt, which he took after Brahim Diaz’s return to Real Madrid earlier this summer. The Rossoneri scored two goals in the opening 21 minutes at the Stadio Dall’Ara through Olivier Giroud and Christian Pulisic.
Pioli’s men play the second Serie A game of the season on Saturday against Torino at San Siro, in their home debut in 2023-24.