Soccer Future Watch: Rafael Leao Soccer Cards, AC Milan – What a couple of seasons it has been for 23-year-old Portuguese star, Rafael Leao. The forward, capable of playing both winger and central in attack, was brought up through the youth ranks at Sporting Lisbon.
After leaving his boyhood club to join Lille for a free transfer in 2019, Leao made his big breakthrough, demonstrating his ability to open up and punish opponents.
Milan bought Leao after one season in France, for a fee of around £20 m. It was here that Leao gained the attention of the world’s biggest clubs. He won the Seria A MVP in 2021/22 after finishing the season with 11 goals and 10 assists. He was instrumental in Milan winning the Scudetto.
The Portuguese is a naturally dangerous player, who has lighting pace, the ability to drive the ball forward and ultimately an ever-improving final product. Any team in the world would be happy to have him. This type of player is pure gold in soccer.
The World Cup in 2022 will provide a global stage for Leao. With some good performances which have already been shown, it’s highly likely Milan will cash in on him in 2023.
A reported £88 m price tag is a big fee, but clubs will be willing to take the risk on the player. It will be a challenge for Leao to cope with the pressure of this price tag but, given he has proven his worth at Milan, he may take this in stride and really push on.
As far as the national team goes, when Ronaldo retires, I would not be surprised if he became the central figure for his nation’s team. This will further boost his confidence and global recognition.
The 2019/20 rookie card of Leao has a price tag showing the interest the hobby has in the youngster.
Topps included Leao in several releases in 2021/22 with autograph cards also available. These have become extremely popular. Likewise, Panini releases including 2022 Panini Prizm World Cup are massive cards with unlimited potential.
This will still be dwarfed in comparison to total these may be worth in the future, should Leao remain on the path to a legendary career.
Soccer Future Watch: Rafael Leao – Statistics
Statistical image generated on Sports Reference as of 12/05/2022.
Soccer Future Watch: Rafael Leao Soccer Cards, AC Milan – More Resources
Soccer Future Watch: Rafael Leao Soccer Cards, AC Milan – Image Gallery
- Soccer Future Watch: Dominik Szoboszlai Soccer Cards, Liverpool FC - July 17, 2023
- Soccer Future Watch: Nuno Mendes Soccer Cards, Paris Saint-Germain - June 30, 2023
- F1 Future Watch: Oscar Piastri, McLaren - June 26, 2023