Rafael Leão's Winding Path to AC Milan Stardom

From a Benfica promise broken to a Ronaldo connection, the Portuguese winger's journey is one of determination and pivotal decisions.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rafael Leão's rise to stardom with AC Milan is a compelling narrative of early setbacks, unwavering determination, and pivotal decisions that shaped his career. The Portuguese winger opened up about his childhood passion for Benfica, the broken promises that led him to rival Sporting CP, and the decisive role AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini played in convincing him to join the Rossoneri. Leão's story also highlights the demanding environment fostered by veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimović and the player's ability to connect with fans and fellow athletes, including facilitating a meeting between Cristiano Ronaldo and popular YouTuber Speed.

Why it matters

Leão's journey mirrors the success of other prominent Portuguese wingers like Cristiano Ronaldo, underscoring the quality of youth development in Portugal and the potential for future stars to emerge. His versatility and adaptability to various tactical systems further enhance his value, making him a rising talent to watch in Serie A.

The details

Leão's story begins with a childhood passion for Benfica, but logistical challenges led to a broken promise from the club regarding transportation to training. This frustration prompted him to seek opportunities elsewhere, ultimately leading him to Sporting CP. In 2019, Leão faced a choice between Inter Milan and AC Milan, with a direct conversation with AC Milan legend Paolo Maldini proving decisive. Maldini's personal outreach and the club's rich history swayed Leão's decision. Leão's time at AC Milan has also been significantly influenced by veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimović, who is known for his demanding training regime and relentless pursuit of perfection.

  • Leão's childhood passion for Benfica began at a young age.
  • In his youth, Benfica offered to provide transportation to training, but the club did not fulfill this promise.
  • Leão joined Sporting CP in 2019 after the broken promise from Benfica.
  • In 2019, Leão faced a choice between Inter Milan and AC Milan, ultimately choosing the Rossoneri.
  • Leão has been playing for AC Milan since 2019 and has been influenced by veteran striker Zlatan Ibrahimović.

The players

Rafael Leão

A Portuguese winger who currently plays for AC Milan in Serie A.

Paolo Maldini

A legendary AC Milan player and current club director who played a key role in convincing Leão to join the Rossoneri.

Zlatan Ibrahimović

A veteran striker at AC Milan who is known for his demanding training regime and relentless pursuit of perfection.

Cristiano Ronaldo

A Portuguese football superstar who Leão helped connect with popular YouTuber Speed.

Tiago Fernandes

A former Sporting CP youth coach who believes Leão's talent was comparable to Cristiano Ronaldo's at a similar age.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I was angry. Life led me to the rival, Sporting appeared, and that's how it all began.”

— Rafael Leão (newsy-today.com)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Leão's journey highlights the importance of trust and reliability in youth development, as well as the enduring power of club culture and the impact of iconic figures in attracting top talent. His versatility and adaptability to various tactical systems make him a rising talent to watch in Serie A, mirroring the success of other prominent Portuguese wingers like Cristiano Ronaldo.