Rafael Leão and Milan part ways after seven years and perhaps the right moment to do so had finally arrived. He arrived as a carefree twenty‑year‑old and leaves grown and matured, but not as much as the club and fans would have wanted.

His talent was evident from the start, in the Scudetto season 2021/2022, when he exploded at his peak. The following year, if possible, he performed even better and it was thought he could establish himself as a true champion.

But then the lows increased: insolent attitude during matches, red‑card‑type behaviour (see cooling break at the Olimpico), the music and his absence in decisive games.

Thus the love‑hate relationship between him and the Milan crowd seemed to become more hate than love. By the number 10 nothing was forgiven any more and he at the same time did not help himself.

Some saw the separation almost as a liberation, others never fully appreciated Rafa, some already miss him. But one thing we can say: after all, with Leão we had fun.