The Barcelona forward talks about his future: ‘I see myself…’

Rafael Leao is one of the most admired forwards of FC Barcelona. AC Milan’s Portuguese international, along with Liverpool’s Luis Díaz, is one of the best options for Barça’s left wing position should either player become available in the summer.

Leao is a key player at Milan, but his role at the club had been a challenge under former coach Paulo Fonseca.

However, the arrival of new coach Sergio Conceicao offers him a new panorama, although the rossoneri They are also reportedly chasing England international Marcus Rashford.

For now, Leao remains interested in staying in Milan, where he has played since 2019.

“I see myself here, also in the future” the 25-year-old winger said in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sportcited by Sports World.

Performances such as his winning contributions during Milan’s Champions League victory over Real Madrid this season and his outstanding performance in Riyadh against Inter in the Super Cup demonstrate Leao’s potential.

However, the club management and fans have expressed their desire for him to produce such breakthrough performances on a more consistent basis.

When asked about his aspirations to win the Ballon d’Or, Leao responded that collective success motivates him more.

“I think about it, but I prefer the Champions League.” he admitted.

Barcelona made a move for Leao last summer when Nico Williams opted to stay at Athletic Club. At the time, Barça hoped to take advantage of the Nike sponsorship deal to return to the 1:1 rule, which would provide the financial leverage needed for the transfer.

Although fair play regulations ultimately prevented the deal, Jorge Mendes, the agent connected to Leao’s representatives, actively worked to position the player for a transfer in case Barça’s financial situation improved and interest could be reviewed at the end of this year.