Florenzi heaps praise on difference-maker Leao: 'A mix of Neymar and Mbappe'

Rafael Leao was one of the protagonists in AC Milan’s 2-1 win over Fiorentina on Saturday evening, bagging a goal and an assist. After the game, the veteran Alessandro Florenzi only had words of praise for the winger. 

The Portuguese winger was named the MOTM by Gazzetta dello Sport this morning and he also received a high score in our player ratings. Certainly, when he’s playing like he did yesterday, he can make the difference for Milan.

Speaking to DAZN after the game, as cited by MilanNews, Florenzi was asked about the qualities of Leao and the comparisons with Kylian Mbappe. Given the winger’s characteristics, the Italian instead stated that he’s a mix of the Frenchman and Neymar.

“Let’s say that they have slightly different roles, in the sense that Mbappe lives for goals. Rafa, given his characteristics, is more of a mix to me. I would say he’s a mix between Neymar and Mbappé. But I’m talking about the characteristics.

“The thing is that if he plays like he’s been playing lately, then he makes a difference, and he’s getting close to the champions. In the attacking phase, he becomes a strength for us that not many other teams have,” he stated.

After a tougher period this season, at least in the league, Leao has seemingly found his stride again. It could be a very pleasant season finale for the Rossoneri with the winger in good form, aiming to take home the Europa League trophy.