Amorim on Leão's Future: "Sometimes it's better to move on"

Ahead of the match against Venezia, a Serie A fixture, AC Milan coach Ruben Amorim confirmed Rafael Leão's exclusion from the squad and left the Portuguese forward's future uncertain, just days before the transfer window closes on Wednesday, September 2nd.

When asked about the possibility of Leão becoming a key player if he stays at the club, Amorim deferred a definitive answer. "I understand the question, but we'll talk about it in five days when the market closes. It's difficult for me to discuss it now, but I promise I'll explain everything at the next press conference," he stated.

The Portuguese coach lauded the player but emphasized the importance of attitude. "Leão is a great player. I've said in the past that with the right mentality, he could play for any team in the world. But it's precisely that mentality that's needed. Sometimes in football, it's better to move on, and we're in the middle of that situation," he added.

For now, he assured, Leão's absence from the upcoming game is due to his physical condition. "Leão has only trained once; he's not in the right condition, and therefore, he won't play," clarified Amorim, who expressed satisfaction with the current squad, though without closing the door to new arrivals. "I'm very happy with the team, although we don't know what will happen until the end of the transfer window. If another player arrives, it will be because they can help us in the present and the future."

The coach also addressed the situation of players like Tomori, Fofana, and Santiago Giménez – who is of interest to FC Porto – who are not part of the project. "Even if a player isn't part of the project, it doesn't mean they have to leave. They are excellent players and great lads, but it's impossible to train with too many players because no one would be able to prepare for games," he explained, assuring that the club has the facilities for everyone to train.

Finally, Amorim declined to comment on the need for defensive reinforcements, insisting that the focus is on the next opponent. "We can't solve all our problems in a single transfer window, especially since choices will be made for the next four or five years. It will take time, especially for the young players," he concluded.