Rafael Leao noted it would be ‘very important’ for him to be named Portugal captain in the future and remained calm despite his lack of starts with the national team.
The 24-year-old Milan winger did not start a single match at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, failing to play more than 30 minutes in a single match during the team’s run to the quarterfinals. He started their last three Euro 2024 qualifiers, providing an assist against Luxembourg.
Leao is the standout star of Stefano Pioli’s Milan squad and has continued his strong form this season, scoring three goals and providing four assists in the club’s first eight Serie A outings.
Speaking in a press conference via Calciomercato.com, Leao was first asked if he’d like to wear the captain’s armband for Portugal in the future.
“Yes, of course it would be a very important moment for me, for my career and for my family. Representing the national team is a source of pride, even more so with the captain’s armband. I don’t know, who knows…”
He did not want to look ahead to next summer’s European Championship just yet.
“We cannot already think about the future. If we win Friday’s game then yes, we can start doing that. For now, we are focused on Friday’s game.”
The 24-year-old was asked if he felt like he deserved to be a regular for Portugal considering his work at Milan.
“As I always say, I’m very happy to be here, I have the trust of my coach and he’s the one who decides. I always give my best.
“If I’m not a starter it’s not something that makes me sad, because we have a wide range of quality players.”
Finally, Leao discussed Portugal’s strong qualifying campaign for Euro 2024.
“I don’t think it was easy or simple. We’re understanding well what our coach wants us to put into practice.
“The players are giving a good response in every game and I think that has been an important factor.”