League: Serie A Sport: Soccer Country: Italy Category: Scores & Results

Rafael Leao discusses his journey with Milan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic's influence

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 1:40 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

Rafael Leao discusses his journey with Milan and Zlatan Ibrahimovic's influence

Summary

Rafael Leao outlined his experience at AC Milan in an interview reflecting on his decision to join the club over Inter. He credited Paolo Maldini for persuading him and spoke about his relationship with coach Stefano Pioli. Additionally, he acknowledged Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s impact, suggesting that the veteran striker can influence players who may be psychologically vulnerable. Leao emphasized the importance of these figures in his development as a player, particularly during their Scudetto-winning season under Pioli.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Leao joined Milan from Lille in 2019 after Maldini’s intervention.
•He highlighted the positive rapport with coach Stefano Pioli.
•Leao mentioned Ibrahimovic’s complex influence on teammates.
•He reflected on winning the Scudetto with Milan under Pioli.
•Leao's future at Milan appears uncertain as both parties eye a sale.

Latest Updates

1:40 PMYahoo Sports — Leao on Maldini, Pioli, and not being ‘psychologically weak’ around Ibrahimovic

What they're saying

"
Rafael Leao reveals how Paolo Maldini convinced him to prefer Milan to Inter, the rapport with Stefano Pioli, and why Zlatan Ibrahimovic ‘can influence you if you are psychologically weak.’The Por...
— Yahoo Sports

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Juventus AC Milan Serie A Soccer