Mansion Sports – Rafael Leão credited his team’s resurgence as the decisive factor behind AC Milan’s triumph over ACF Fiorentina, while Luka Modrić hailed his teammate as one of the world’s finest players with even greater potential to grow. 

Leão emerged as the hero of the night, scoring twice to secure Milan’s return to the top of the Serie A standings.

Leão Breaks the Deadlock and Becomes the Match Winner

Making his first start of the season after recovering from a calf injury sustained in early August, Leão was deployed in an unfamiliar central attacking role.

The match became tense when Robin Gosens gave Fiorentina an early lead at San Siro Stadium. However, Leão responded with a precise low-driven strike from outside the penalty area to level the score.

His second goal came from the penalty spot after the referee awarded a spot kick following a VAR review of Fabiano Parisi’s foul on Santiago Giménez. Notably, this marked Leão’s first penalty goal for Milan, as he had never been the team’s primary penalty taker.

In a post-match interview with DAZN Italy, Leão emphasized the collective effort behind the victory.

“We knew this would be a difficult match. Even though Fiorentina is going through a tough period, they have quality players like Moise Kean who can be dangerous,” he said.

“We worked as one unit. Once we scored the first goal, the entire team rose to the occasion.”

A Unique Celebration Moment

A lighthearted moment occurred during Leão’s penalty celebration. As he attempted to remove his shirt, Matteo Gabbia quickly intervened to prevent him from receiving a yellow card.

Leão dedicated his goals to those closest to him.

“I dedicate these goals to my family and my teammates in the dressing room who have continuously supported and motivated me. We must keep this spirit both individually and collectively,” he stated.

He also spoke about his relationship with Modrić, who recently joined the club. “When Luka arrived at Milanello, he hugged me and said he wanted to help me. Playing alongside him is something special, and I hope he provides me with many assists,” Leão added.

Modrić Praises Leão as a World-Class Talent

Modrić, who contributed to Milan’s rise to the top of the standings with 16 points, did not hesitate to praise his teammate.

“Rafa is incredible. I have been looking forward to playing with him. Even after his injury, he is now regaining his sharpness. This is the Rafa we need,” Modrić said.

“From the outside, I always knew he was a great player. But after training with him, I am convinced he is one of the best in the world. What’s even more impressive is that he can still improve. It all depends on him. I hope these two goals boost his confidence and make him an even more decisive figure for the team,” he continued.

Milan on the Right Track in the Title Race

This victory was even more remarkable considering Milan’s ongoing injury crisis. Several key players, including Adrien Rabiot, Christian Pulisic, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku, Pervis Estupiñán, and Ardon Jashari, remain sidelined.

Despite these absences, the Rossoneri displayed resilience and returned to the top of the league table for the first time since Matchday 8 of the 2023–2024 season.

“We must take it step by step. This team is growing, showing both character and quality. The road is long, but we are on the right path,” Modrić concluded. “Once our injured players return, we will be even stronger.”