Rafael Leao, Santiago Gimenez, Christian Pulisic, and Joao Felix have all carried the weight of expectation at San Siro, each with moments of magic but none completely escaping scrutiny.
In a season filled with uncertainty, Milan’s attack has been defined by brilliance, frustration, and inconsistency. Four offensive players in particular—Rafael Leao, Santiago Gimenez, Christian Pulisic, and Joao Felix—have carried the weight of expectation at San Siro, each with moments of magic but none completely escaping scrutiny.
Pulisic has arguably been the brightest of the bunch, scoring 15 goals and assisting 10 more in what has been his most productive club season to date. Gimenez, signed from Feyenoord in January, started strong with three goals in his first few games, but hasn’t scored since February 18 and is now battling both form and fitness. Meanwhile, Felix, on loan from Chelsea, announced himself with a debut goal but has since faded into the background, with reports suggesting Milan won’t pursue a permanent deal.
Then there’s Leao. The most enigmatic of them all, according to some.
Ronaldinho’s seal of approval
In the midst of this turbulent campaign, Ronaldinho—one of Milan’s most beloved former stars—returned to Italy this week as a guest at the Vinitaly event in Verona. Asked about the current state of the Rossoneri, the Brazilian great was clear about who stands out for him.
“Milan has a cracking team with some top footballers. Leao? He’s one of my favorites—I enjoy watching him play. He doesn’t need any advice at all,” the Brazilian legend told Sky Italia. Yes, the answer to the mystery is Rafael Leao.
The praise carries weight. This isn’t a pundit or a coach speaking—it’s Ronaldinho, a man who dazzled in the red and black from 2008 to 2011, scoring 26 goals and providing 29 assists in 95 appearances. His impact with the red and black kit was almost legendary, and for him to single out the Portuguese winger is no small compliment. “He’s a great player,” the 45-year-old continued. “He’s one of the players I enjoy watching the most.”
Season of highs and lows
Leao’s numbers this season—10 goals and nine assists in 43 appearances—suggest a solid contribution, but they don’t tell the full story. Once seen as San Siro’s next global superstar, the Portuguese has drawn criticism from fans and media alike for his inconsistency. His inability to deliver in key moments has even led to temporary benchings under both Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao.
Still only 25, the winger’s blend of pace, flair, and creativity remains a tantalizing asset for Milan. Yet questions persist: can he become the leader the club envisioned? Or will he join a growing list of talent that never quite fulfilled its San Siro promise?
