MILAN — AC Milan’s star forward Rafael Leão has officially announced his intention to depart the club this summer, signaling the end of a transformative seven-year tenure at the San Siro.
A Departure for a "New Challenge"
In a statement released on May 30, 2026, the 26-year-old Portuguese international expressed his desire to test himself in a new environment. "I’m proud as I made history at AC Milan, but I want a new chapter," Leão said. "I did my best for Milan, but it’s time to try another challenge; I feel ready to play in another league."
Leão’s decision comes on the heels of a disappointing 2025/26 season for the Rossoneri, which saw the club finish in fifth place, missing out on UEFA Champions League qualification. The club’s internal instability highlighted by the recent sacking of manager Massimiliano Allegri on May 25 has paved the way for a major rebuild during the upcoming transfer window.
A Legacy at the San Siro
Since arriving from Lille in 2019, Leão has become the face of AC Milan’s resurgence. His impact on the club’s recent history is significant:
• League MVP: His stellar performance during the 2021/22 campaign was the catalyst for Milan’s first Serie A title in 11 years, earning him the league's Most Valuable Player award.
• Prolific Output: Over the course of more than 290 appearances, he netted 80 goals, consistently serving as the team's most dangerous creative force.
• Iconic Presence: Beyond the statistics, Leão’s style of play and leadership on the pitch made him a fan favorite and an integral part of the team's return to the European stage.
Looking Ahead
With his international focus now shifting to the upcoming World Cup, Leão has stated that he will wait until after his tournament duties conclude before finalizing his next move. Milan, meanwhile, enters a period of significant transition as they search for a new head coach to lead the team back into the top four of Serie A and compete in the UEFA Europa League next season.
