Sacchi: ‘Leao was invisible for Milan against Atalanta’

Arrigo Sacchi was not impressed with Rafael Leao’s performance in Milan’s tough 1-1 draw with Atalanta yesterday.

The Rossoneri fell behind in the first half after a Ruslan Malinovskyi opener but Ismael Bennacer managed to salvage a point for Stefano Pioli’s side with his second half equaliser. It was a frustrating result for Milan, who played well but couldn’t secure all three points in Bergamo.

Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Sacchi commented on the 1-1 draw between Atalanta and Milan, highlighting Leao’s disappointing performance.

“I thought Milan were good, they were able to react to Atalanta’s advantage. It wasn’t easy because Atalanta was set up on the pitch. There are some factors to consider. 

“Leao was invisible, it seems to me that sometimes he is lazy, we need to work on the psychological aspect so that he can make the most of things.”

The 23-year-old Portuguese forward has had a slow start to the season, failing to directly contribute to a goal in the first two matches. Last season, Leao scored 11 goals and provided 10 assists in 34 Serie A appearances, playing a key role in the team’s successful Scudetto run.

The forward is contracted to the Rossoneri until 2024 and the club are keen to protect him with a new deal.