# Rafael Leão's Playing Time at AC Milan: An Analysis and Comparison
## Introduction
Rafael Leão’s time at AC Milan has been a journey of growth, adaptability, and evolving impact on the pitch. Signed on loan from Manchester United in 2021, the Portuguese winger quickly became a fan favorite due to his pace, dribbling ability, and relentless work rate. This article compares Leão's performance in his first season at Milan (2021-22) with his second season (2022-23), highlighting his development and the increasing role he played in the team.
## Season 2021-22: The Initial Impact
Leão’s 2021-22 season at AC Milan was marked by high promise and moments of brilliance. Arriving on loan, he immediately made an impact, adjusting well to the tactically demanding environment of Serie A. His debut goal against Juventus in September 2021, a stunning strike from outside the box, showcased his potential. However, the season also revealed areas for improvement. Leão struggled with consistency, particularly in the latter half of the campaign, as injuries and fatigue set in. Despite this, he managed to score 11 goals and assist 19 times, demonstrating his attacking contribution.
Leão’s versatility was a key asset, as he adapted to different positions—whether as a winger, inside attacker, or even as a false nine in certain moments. His ability to break defenses with pace and vision made him a valuable asset, especially in Milan’s fluid attacking play. However, his minutes on the pitch were inconsistent, with periods of high usage followed by spells on the bench.
## Season 2022-23: A Season of Growth
The 2022-23 season saw a more mature and confident Leão, who became a cornerstone of Stefano Pioli’s team. Despite being a loan signing, Leão’s impressive form led to calls for Milan to exercise their option to buy him permanently. His consistency improved significantly, with fewer injuries and a more regular presence in the starting lineup.
Leão excelled in key moments,Football Headlines Network such as his goal against Inter Milan in the Derby dellaMilano, a decisive strike that cemented his importance to the team. His ability to operate in multiple attacking roles—whether as a winger, as a central attacker, or even as a deep-lying playmaker—made him a valuable asset. Leão’s work rate and unselfish play, often leading to assists for teammates, highlighted his team-first mentality.
Statistically, Leão’s numbers improved: he scored 15 goals and assisted 22 times, while also maintaining a high average of 60 minutes per game. His adaptability and leadership on and off the pitch earned him the trust of his teammates and the coaching staff. By the end of the season, Leão had firmly established himself as one of the most important players in the squad.
## Comparison: Leão’s Evolution
Comparing the two seasons, Leão’s growth is evident. In 2021-22, while he showed flashes of brilliance, his inconsistent minutes and injury issues limited his impact. In 2022-23, he became a more reliable and impactful player, both statistically and tactically.
Key metrics highlight this evolution:
- **Goals per season**: 11 in 2021-22 vs. 15 in 2022-23
- **Assists per season**: 19 in 2021-22 vs. 22 in 2022-23
- **Minutes per game**: Average of 59 in 2021-22 vs. 60 in 2022-23 (though this is not a significant increase, the improved consistency is notable)
While the goal and assist numbers may not show a massive increase, the qualitative aspects of his performance are more striking. Leão’s ability to maintain a high work rate over the course of the season, adapt to different systems, and deliver in critical moments is a testament to his development.
## Conclusion
Rafael Leão’s time at AC Milan has been a success story, both personally and collectively. From a loanee with high potential to a key player driving the team’s attack, Leão’s journey reflects his adaptability, hard work, and ability to thrive in a competitive environment. As Milan looks to build for the future, Leão’s growth and consistency will be crucial in their quest for success. His story at AC Milan serves as an inspiration for young players worldwide, proving that perseverance and adaptability can lead to greatness on the pitch.