Rafael Leao Provokes Milan Fans After Assist, Clarifies Post-Match: Not Directed at the South Stand, Only at Critics

In the second round of Serie A, AC Milan lost 1-2 to Parma, only managing one point after two rounds. More troubling than the poor results is the controversy stirred up by star player Rafael Leao, who provoked fans after providing an assist.

In this match, Parma took a 1-0 lead just two minutes into the game. In the 66th minute, after drawing multiple defenders, Leao assisted Pulisic in scoring the equalizer. After the assist, Leao faced the stands, glaring and making a series of “shut up” gestures, muttering something that was likely not pleasant. This caused quite a stir, especially since he was facing the direction of his own fans’ section, despite playing away from home.

Social media in Italy was soon filled with criticism, accusations, and conspiracy theories directed at Leao. Why did he do it? Was it because AC Milan’s “form issue” had turned into a “mental issue”? Or was Leao thinking about leaving the team? Only one person could clarify the situation: Leao himself.

After the match, Leao issued a statement via social media clarifying, “This gesture was not aimed at the South Stand (a group of dedicated AC Milan supporters), nor will it ever be, as they have always stood by me during my toughest times… Perhaps they are the only ones who support us in difficult moments, true fans. I saw some Milan fans’ views that I found unreasonable. The gesture was directed at certain fans who make negative comments when we lose.”

Additionally, Leao stated, “No AC Milan player would intentionally perform poorly on the field. We honor the shirt from the start to the end of every match! I will continue to take risks as I always do; that’s what makes me unique, and I won’t change my style of play. The match against Parma is over now; it’s time to focus on the next game.”

AC Milan executive Fassone also sought to quell doubts, stating, “Will Leao transfer away? No, he will stay 100%.”