LEÃO IS THE MVP FROM ROMA v AC MILAN

After two games to warm up and get into the groove, it is matchday 3, like last season, where Rafa Leão hit the headlines grabbing his first goal of the campaign and doing so in style: an acrobatic volley of rare beauty and "pure instinct" he said after the game. From Calabria's cross in, his quick spin and shot went in off the post, leaving mouths wide open in shock around the Olimpico in Rome. Rafa once again dominated his left-hand flank, giving Çelik nightmares the same way he did to Schuurs in last week's game at San Siro. 

Besides the usual bursts with the ball at his feet, this season the Portuguese player is showing more glimpses of clarity in his play, helping out more in his defensive duties, more willing to stay in the game and to read the moments better. They are small pieces, that season after season add to a player flourishing and continuously growing. In 77 minutes, his feet were involved in several threatening moves, both in the first half and second, and he was a constant thorn in the side for the Giallorossi. 

His performance and wonderful goal has awarded him the best player on the pitch, as voted for by our fans on the AC Milan Official App. He won 58% of the vote, ahead of a gigantic performance from Ruben Loftus-Cheek (28%), and the ever-precious Rade Krunić (10%), who both played their part in the victory over Mourinho's side. 

On Rafa's night, beyond those things already mentioned, there were also two potential assists to Reijnders in the first half and Loftus after the break, who were both whiskers away from scoring. The squad has amplified its attacking options, but the number 10 remains a guaranteed constant danger, despite having less of the ball than in the past: he is a bright light, where things always happen,w ith AC Milan enjoying the fruits. Now, he flies off to represent his national team in EURO 2024 qualification, but on his return is the derby with Rafa ready.

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