"I’d hit him every day" - Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti hails AC Milan superstar, hilariously claims 'sometimes he needs to be hit'
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has given an amusing assessment of AC Milan forward Rafael Leao by suggesting he needs to be stricter coaching. The Portuguese attacker has been in fine form this season, posting 15 goals and 14 assists in 47 games across competitions.
Ancelotti spoke glowingly of Leao's talent but explained how he'd coach the 24-year-old. The former Milan boss said (via Italian outlet Repubblica):
"Milan has a great talent like Leao. Sometimes he needs to be hit. If he was coached by me, I’d hit him every day."
Ancelotti was speaking about Milan and how he still holds affection for the Rossonerri. He was a massive success at the San Siro, winning eight major trophies before leaving in 2009.
The Serie A giants have somewhat failed to replicate Ancelotti's dominant reign in recent years. Leao was their protagonist this season but they've missed out on the title to rivals Inter Milan.
Leao's future has been the subject of speculation despite the 24-cap Portugal international signing a new contract last summer. Reports claim Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal are prepared to pay the Milan forward's €175 million release clause.
The former LOSC Lille winger could link up with former Barcelona superstar Neymar at The Blue Jewel. The Saudi Pro League is continuing to target high-profile European stars after the arrival of Cristiano Ronaldo in the Middle East.
Rafael Leao's agent Jorge Mendes reportedly approached Real Madrid about the AC Milan star last year
Leao was linked with a move away from Milan in early 2023 before putting pen to paper on a contract extension. He's been with the Rossonerri since August 2019 but a move elsewhere has been constantly touted.
La Gazzetta dello Sport (via One Football) reported in March 2023 that Leao's agent Jorgen Mendes contracted Real Madrid. He tried to gauge whether the La Liga heavyweights would be interested in signing his client.
Real Madrid were and still are well stacked in attack, with Ancelotti boasting Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo. Kylian Mbappe is set to be added to that list once his contract with PSG expires next month.
Leao has proven to be one of Europe's most exciting attackers for several years at the San Siro. He's bagged 58 goals and 50 assists in 210 games, winning the Serie A title in 2022.
The Portuguese ace signed a new deal but still speculation grows over his future. A move to the Santiago Bernabeu looks highly unlikely despite Ancelotti's obvious admiration.