Rafael Leão has directly rejected reports of tension between himself and new AC Milan manager Ruben Amorim, responding publicly after claims emerged that the Portuguese coach considers him a negative influence inside the dressing room. The winger’s intervention comes as uncertainty continues around his future at Milan, with several clubs reportedly exploring a move before the transfer window closes.
Leão dismisses Amorim dressing-room claims
Leão rarely posts on X, but the 27-year-old broke that silence after seeing a social-media post repeating a report originally published by La Gazzetta dello Sport.The report claimed that Amorim had concerns about Leão’s influence within the Milan dressing room and believed the winger could have a negative effect on the squad’s atmosphere.Leão responded directly to the claim, writing: “Maybe you’re because you lying.”The response was prompted by the report being circulated online rather than by a public statement from Milan or Amorim, and Leão’s intervention represents the clearest indication from the player himself that he rejects the characterisation.The speculation had gained additional attention after Leão was left out of Milan’s squad for their pre-season meeting with Manchester United. His absence, however, was subsequently attributed to a minor injury rather than a disciplinary issue, according to the reports provided.
Why the rumours have grown around Leão
The reports have emerged during a summer in which Leão’s future at Milan has already been the subject of considerable speculation.The winger has been linked with an exit, with the material provided indicating that both Milan and Leão have been pushing towards a departure.Three clubs — Galatasaray, Besiktas and Fenerbahce — are reported to have submitted proposals, although none of the Turkish sides’ offers came close to Milan’s initial asking price of around €50 million plus €10 million in add-ons.With the transfer deadline approaching, Milan are reportedly prepared to reduce their demands, potentially accepting a total package of around €40 million.That backdrop has made the claims about Leão and Amorim particularly significant, although the player’s own response has now put his position on the specific “negative influence” allegation on record.
Premier League interest remains
Leão has also been linked with several Premier League clubs, with Leeds United among those reportedly showing strong interest during the window.No formal offer from Leeds had been registered in the information provided, despite the Portuguese international being repeatedly linked with a move to Elland Road.One potential obstacle is his salary. Leão reportedly earns around £105,000 a week at Milan, which would make him Leeds’ highest-paid player if he moved on those terms.Leeds’ current highest earners are reported to include new signing Tarik Muharemović and striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, both on around £100,000 a week.There have also been suggestions that Leão could seek an increase in wages with his next club, adding another complication to any potential move.
Amorim begins Milan chapter against former club
The claims surfaced as Amorim prepared to face Manchester United in Milan’s final pre-season fixture in Wrocław.The match represented Amorim’s first meeting with United since leaving the club earlier in the year following a difficult spell at Old Trafford.Milan ultimately won 4-2, giving Amorim his first pre-season victory as the club’s manager. The match also saw Marcus Rashford make his first Manchester United appearance in 20 months after his loan spells away from the club.For Leão, however, the more immediate issue was the speculation surrounding his relationship with his new manager.His response has been unequivocal: whatever discussions may be taking place around his future, he rejects the claim that Amorim regards him as a negative influence within the Milan dressing room.
