Rafael Leão's Assist Record at AC Milan: A Detailed Overview
# Rafael Leão's Assist Record at AC Milan: A Detailed Overview
In the illustrious history of AC Milan, the club has produced numerous legendary players who have left indelible marks on its storied past. Among these legends is Rafael Leão, a Brazilian midfielder who has become one of the most versatile and influential players in the Italian league over the last decade. His impressive assist record at AC Milan serves as testament to his skill, versatility, and contribution to the team's success.
## Early Career and Notable Performances
Leão made his debut for AC Milan in 2014, joining from Inter Milan after a successful loan spell with Porto. During his first season, he demonstrated his potential by scoring three goals and providing two assists in 36 appearances. This early form laid the foundation for his development and cemented him as a key player for the club.
As the years progressed, Leão continued to excel both offensively and defensively. He became known for his ability to control the midfield, distribute the ball effectively, and provide crucial assists to his teammates. His versatility allowed him to play various positions, including central midfield, attacking midfield, and even winger roles.
One of Leão's standout performances came during the 2018-19 season when he scored four goals and provided five assists for AC Milan. This performance was particularly noteworthy because it marked the start of what would be a string of impressive seasons for the Portuguese midfielder.
## Assists at AC Milan
Throughout his time at AC Milan, Rafael Leão has accumulated a significant number of assists. As of 2023, he has provided 171 assists across all competitions (league,Premier League Updates cups, and friendly matches). This impressive tally places him among the top assist creators in European football, highlighting his crucial role in the team's offensive attacks.
### Key Highlights
1. **2018-19 Season**: With AC Milan winning the Serie A title, Leão contributed significantly through his assists. He provided six assists in the league, which helped secure the club's championship.
2. **2019-20 Season**: The following year saw another strong season for Leão. He scored nine goals and provided seven assists, helping the team win the Coppa Italia.
3. **2020-21 Season**: Despite facing some challenges due to the pandemic, Leão still managed to contribute with eight goals and ten assists, helping AC Milan finish second in the league table.
4. **2021-22 Season**: In this season, Leão broke the record for most assists in a single season by a Portuguese player, recording 15 assists for AC Milan. This performance helped the team win the Serie A title for the second consecutive year.
### Impact on Team Success
Leão's assist record has not only been instrumental in the team's victories but has also contributed to their overall success. His ability to create chances for his teammates and provide creative solutions has been crucial in setting up the perfect attack for AC Milan.
## Conclusion
Rafael Leão's assist record at AC Milan is a testament to his exceptional skills, versatility, and contribution to the club's success. From his early days at Inter Milan to his current position as one of the best assist creators in European football, Leão has consistently shown that he belongs in the pantheon of greats at AC Milan. His influence on the team's offensive game and his ability to provide crucial assists have earned him a place in the club's legacy, ensuring that he will continue to inspire future generations of Milan fans.