Rafael Leao called ‘not that fast’ and quite predictable by Feyenoord defender

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Susy Campanale | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 2:53 PM ET

Rafael Leao received a damning review from Feyenoord defender Givairo Read, who successfully marked him out of the Milan defeat. ‘He’s not that fast’ and fairly predictable.

The Portugal international returned to the starting XI as part of the so-called Fab Four in Rotterdam last night, alongside Santiago Gimenez, Joao Felix and Christian Pulisic.

However, Leao wasted a golden opportunity to score on the counter-attack when he started the run from his own half, eventually caught up and successfully tackled by Read.

Feyenoord defender unimpressed with Leao

The first leg of the Champions League play-off ended 1-0 for Feyenoord and Read gave an interview with Ziggo Sport afterwards that cast shade on Leao’s performance.

“He’s not that fast,” said Read. “He was very difficult to catch in the first few metres, but I expected that. I watched some of the footage before the game, so I knew what to expect.

“I also believe the atmosphere of the De Kuip really helped me to distract him, so I am also grateful to our fans.”

Leao himself apologised to the Milan supporters after the defeat and confessed the performance was “not up to the level of this match.”

The 25-year-old has stuttered so far this season, as despite scoring nine goals with seven assists in 33 competitive games, the flashes of inspiration have been few and far between.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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