It’s far from certain whether or not AC Milan’s star man Rafael Leao will be at 100% against Inter Milan.
This according to today’s print edition of Turin-based newspaper Tuttosport, via FCInterNews. The newspaper suggests that only the pitch will show whether the 23-year-old is truly ready or not.
Rossoneri forward Leao should be fit for this evening’s Champions League semifinal second leg clash with Inter.
On Sunday Leao returned to training. Now, the Portuguese former Lille star is pushing as much as he can to be ready for this evening’s match.
The presence of the Rossoneri talisman could well be decisive.
In the first leg, Milan had really missed their star man. As legendary former midfielder Clarence Seedorf pointed out, the Rossoneri had to alter their whole style of play without Leao.
With Leao back in the picture, Inter will face a different kind of threat. The Portuguese’s pace and technical ability will surely make it harder for the Nerazzurri to keep a clean sheet than they did in the first leg, as they look to protect their 2-0 advantage.
Rafael Leao Can Play Vs Inter Milan – But Will He Be At His Best?
There is, however, more to it than just whether or not Leao is fit enough to play.
First, there is the question of whether or not Milan coach Stefano Pioli will start the 23-year-old, or use him from the bench.
After two matches out, and a rapid recovery from a muscle injury, it remains to be seen how much Leao will be able to give.
And whether the Portuguese starts or comes off the bench, his exact condition is still an unknown.
If Leao immediately shows his best form, he will be a major threat to Inter. But if the Rossoneri star is a subdued version of himself, he could be much easier for the Nerazzurri to contain.
This evening’s match will be frenetic. Subpar physical condition could mute Leao’s impact significantly.
There’s only one way to find out whether Leao will be at a level required to be the difference-maker or not – see what happens on the pitch.
