Italian media’s criticism of ‘slouched’ Rafael Leao is exactly why Man Utd must avoid deal

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Manchester United have been linked with a move for Rafael Leao but there are some concerns about his form in Italy.

Michael Carrick has confirmed that Manchester United are in the market for a left winger in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Marcus Rashford wants to stay at Barcelona after winning La Liga while out on loan, and his exit would leave just Matheus Cunha and Patrick Dorgu as natural options on the left.

United have been linked with Rafael Leao as a left wing option, but his form with AC Milan is very concerning.

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Rafael Leao booed by fans as Italian media lead criticism

On Sunday, Milan suffered a 3-2 defeat to Atalanta, putting Champions League qualification at risk for the Italian giants.

Rafael Leao played 58 minutes of the match before being replaced, and Italian outlet CalcioMercato explained what went wrong for the Portuguese winger.

They describe Leao’s performance as a “black mark” on his season, and pointed out: “Missed goals, poor play, a yellow card, and above all, his usual submissive and apathetic attitude”.

It is added that Leao was booed by Milan fans as he left the pitch – Milan were 3-0 down at the time.

The report finishes by saying that Leao “took the blow” and “slouched to the sideline” without speaking to teammates.

Should Yan Diomande be Man Utd’s top winger target this summer?

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Rafael Leao’s AC Milan stats in 2025/26

Reports suggest Leao could cost up to £60m this summer, but his stats do not represent that value.

In 30 appearances this season, Leao has scored 10 goals and provided three assists from the wing. The majority of Leao’s goals came early in the season too, with only four scored in 2026.

READ MORE: Rafael Leao shares viral Man Utd celebration amid transfer links

His slump in form is concerning, and attitude problems should be enough for Ineos to turn away from the 26-year-old as a transfer target.

Ineos’ priority should be on overhauling the midfield in the summer, and strengthening out wide could be done by signing a young, hungry talent rather than a gamble like Leao.