Leao discusses Champions League return and Amorim’s respect: “Feeling of duty fulfilled”
Rafael Leao left AC Milan this summer, ending a chapter which was only heading in one direction. Now, the winger has touched on the departure a little more.
Leao’s move away from Milan seemed like a possibility during every mercato at his peak. Whether it was PSG, Manchester City, Manchester United or Chelsea, someone always seemed interested. However, when San Siro grew tired of his performances, those clubs looked away.
Most of the Premier League did and so he headed to Galatasaray, giving a bittersweet ending to a seven-year chapter.
He was always so close to taking the next step towards stardom, but by the end of his time at San Siro, it seemed much further away. The Rossoneri, ultimately, couldn’t gamble on him making the ground up again as they entered a new project.
Leao discusses exit
Speaking to the press ahead of Galatasaray’s Champions League opener, as Calciomercato.com relayed, he discussed the move and his brief experiences with Ruben Amorim.
“Sporting is a team I love very much, but I can’t focus on Sporting today because I’m a Galatasaray player. We came here to win. Tomorrow will be a very difficult match. They play good football and have quality players. We want to show our quality while respecting our opponents.”
His physical condition…
“Regarding my physical condition, I’m fine. I had a small injury. I overcame it two weeks ago and am back now. The Galatasaray team staff helped me get back on track quickly. And tomorrow I’m ready to help the team. I’m ready to win.”
Back in the Champions League…
“I thank Galatasaray for all their commitment to me. They’ve been wanting to bring me here for two months, and I’ve always believed in Galatasaray’s project. Galatasaray has given me the chance to play in the Champions League again.
“The fans are incredible; they live the club to the fullest.”
Experience with Amorim…
“There are moments in life when things have to change. I played for Milan for seven years and I think that, this summer, the time has come for a change of scenery. I had a conversation with Amorim, I’ve always been very open.
“I didn’t know him. I’ve always heard positive things from my national teammates who had played with him, they always told me that he’s an excellent coach and a spectacular person. And in the short time we were together, our relationship was excellent.
“I told him I wanted a change of scenery and he respected my decision. I’m leaving with a smile and with the feeling of duty fulfilled. It’s a club that has given me so much and to which I’ve managed to give back.
“Today I’m a Galatasaray player and I hope that Milan can maintain a high level and win great things.”
