Media outlets in Italy are beginning to suggest that the current situation surrounding Rafael Leao at Milan could lead to a departure in the not-too-distant future, but others warn that his value could decrease if Paulo Fonseca continues to leave him on the Rossoneri bench.
Leao, among the highest earners in San Siro, has been left on the bench for the last two Serie A matches in a row, and Saturday’s reports suggest that it will be the same again for Saturday’s away game against Monza.
Fonseca insists that the decision to omit Leao from his starting line-up is purely for tactical reasons. The Portugal international’s work-rate off the ball and his contribution in defensive phases have been the most common criticisms in 2024-25.
Milan risk Leao devaluation while out-of-favour under Fonseca
Despite Fonseca’s insistence, outlets including Corriere dello Sport suggest that there is something deeper going on behind the scenes, and that the situation looks like the beginning of the end for the Portuguese in Milan.
They admit that a departure would be an ‘extreme’ scenario, but add that nothing can be ruled out in football.
La Repubblica, meanwhile, warn that Leao’s market value risks decreasing if he is left to sit on the bench for an extended period.
The player reportedly has a €175m release clause in his contract to fend off interest from other ‘big’ European clubs. While La Repubblica suggest that his market value is probably closer to the €100m mark, they warn that that figure could come down if the current situation continues.