Rafael Leao's recent struggles at AC Milan have sparked intense debate, with club legend Paolo Di Canio delivering a scathing critique of the Portuguese star's form and focus. Di Canio suggests that Leao's on-pitch movements are ill-suited for the central striker role he's often deployed in, and controversially claims the player's priorities have shifted away from football.
The criticism follows a difficult moment for Leao, who was loudly booed by the San Siro faithful when substituted during Milan's disappointing 3-0 home defeat to Udinese. This season has seen him frequently leading the line, a tactical choice by coach Massimiliano Allegri that Di Canio believes is born of defensive necessity rather than attacking fit.
Di Canio, speaking on Sky Sport, pulled no punches in his analysis. He highlighted a perceived lack of movement and work rate, stating that a true striker must make constant runs, something he feels Leao avoids unless he's certain of receiving the ball. "It’s difficult even for natural centre-forwards; imagine for a player who seems lazy almost every time he doesn’t have the ball," Di Canio remarked, pointing to a fundamental issue in Leao's game.
The critique extends beyond tactics into mentality. Di Canio contrasted Leao's current state with his electrifying 2021-22 campaign, where he was named Serie A's best player and was instrumental in delivering the Scudetto to Milan. According to Di Canio, that peak has been followed by complacency. "He relaxed; he’s been cuddled, and he hasn’t had the determination or desire to keep improving," he argued.
Most strikingly, Di Canio implied that off-field pursuits are draining Leao's professional edge. He referenced the winger's visibility in fashion and music, questioning how such commitments affect his mental and physical regeneration. "If you’re spending six or seven hours with a record label and going to fashion shows, how are you supposed to regenerate the mental energy to play at this level?" It's a pointed question that goes to the heart of modern athlete branding versus on-field performance, a balance every elite player must manage.
For Milan fans and observers, Di Canio's comments frame a crucial crossroads for a player of immense talent. The narrative is now whether Leao can rediscover the explosive, game-defining form that once made him one of Europe's most feared attackers, or if his trajectory will be defined by unmet potential.