This article contains adult content that may be inappropriate for minors. Please confirm that you are 18 years or older to continue. This article contains images or details that some readers may find disturbing. Reader discretion is advised. Rafael Leão has taken on a leadership role following the game in Cremona (2-0), launching the derby against Inter with a strong message for the Milan dressing room. The Portuguese forward, who reached the milestone of ten goals this season with a late strike, did not hesitate to classify the upcoming match, related to the 28th round of Serie A, as decisive. 'To my teammates, for the derby, I ask that you give your all and take it to heart, because it’s a matter of life or death,' stated the Portuguese international to the Italian press, emphasizing the importance of the clash. The 26-year-old forward also offered advice on how to approach the week leading up to the big game: 'The derby week is always different. You don’t go out; you stay home with family, and everyone has to find their own way to stay focused.' Despite scoring against Cremonese, the attacker made a self-critique of his performance, marked by several missed opportunities. 'We had many chances, I personally did too. I should have done more, even though I scored later. I come away feeling a bit like this because I wasn't focused on the details of finishing,' he admitted. Among the missed chances were a one-on-one with Audero that went wide and a deflection over the bar after a cross from Rabiot. His goal came late in the game, during a counter-attack where Nkunku set him up to tap into an empty net. It’s worth noting that Leão's relationship with Inter is longstanding. The player was close to becoming an athlete for the Nerazzurri, but the transfer was halted by Antonio Conte, then the club's coach, who preferred a more experienced forward like Lukaku. Leão himself revealed in an interview how it all unfolded: 'The sporting director of Lille told me they were about to sell me to Inter. I replied that no, I wanted to stay another year to grow. He insisted, but I didn’t change my mind. A few weeks later, he came back to talk to me about Milan. I said yes right away. Paolo Maldini called me via video. He said: You have to come, we are ready to sign you. I couldn't refuse.' Physically, the forward seems to be recovering, but he still does not show his usual top speed. Leão confirmed that he is dealing with a physical issue. 'We are working to resolve this inflammation. I’ve tried to give my all; I feel better and better, although I still feel a bit of discomfort. Everyone has encouraged me and helped me a lot,' he explained. With the derby on the horizon, Leão is confident, despite respect for the opponent. 'The atmosphere will be very nice. Inter is a great team, but we, with all due respect, come with the desire to achieve a good result. We will have to prepare very well; the coach knows this game. And, in my opinion, we are ready,' he concluded.
Milan The Portuguese remains central to this story.
Milan The Portuguese remains central to this story.
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