Rafael Leão has confirmed that he wants to leave AC Milan this summer, ending months of speculation about his future and opening the door to one of the biggest transfers of the 2026 window.
The Portuguese winger revealed that he is ready for a new challenge after seven years at San Siro.
“I’m proud because I made history at AC Milan, but I want a new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league,” Leão told Sport TV Portugal.
The comments represent the clearest indication yet that his time in Milan is coming to an end.
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Leão’s Full Statement
The 26-year-old was careful to stress his gratitude towards Milan while explaining his desire to move on.
“I think I have given AC Milan everything I could. It is a club that helped me grow a lot and supported me through difficult moments. I am happy to have written my name in the club’s history. Now I want to try a new challenge in another league.”
The tone was respectful rather than confrontational, suggesting that both player and club understand that a separation may be the best solution this summer.
Why He Wants To Leave Now
The timing is hardly surprising.
Milan endured a disappointing campaign that ended without Champions League qualification, while uncertainty around the club’s sporting project has continued to grow.
For Leão, this feels like the natural end of a cycle.
He arrived from Lille in 2019 as one of Europe’s most exciting young talents and leaves as one of the faces of modern Milan.
At 26, he is entering what should be the peak years of his career and appears determined to test himself elsewhere.
The Legacy He Leaves Behind
Whatever happens next, Leão’s place in Milan history is secure.
The Portuguese international was a central figure in the club’s resurgence and played a crucial role in delivering the 2021-22 Serie A title — Milan’s first Scudetto in more than a decade.
He also established himself as one of the most feared wide players in European football thanks to his pace, power and ability to decide matches on his own.
Leão At AC Milan
| Category | Record |
|---|---|
| Years at club | 2019-2026 |
| Seasons | 7 |
| Major trophy | Serie A 2021-22 |
| Individual honour | Serie A Player of the Year |
| Position | Left winger |
| Age | 26 |
For long stretches of his Milan career, Leão was the player opponents feared most.
Which Clubs Could Move For Him?
Leão’s availability is expected to attract attention from several major clubs.
Manchester United have been repeatedly linked with the Portuguese star, while Arsenal have also been credited with interest in recent months.
The winger has previously admitted he grew up watching Manchester United because of Cristiano Ronaldo, adding further intrigue to the speculation.
At this stage, however, no destination appears decided.
The player has confirmed his desire to leave. The next step is seeing which club is prepared to meet Milan’s demands.
Milan Still Hold The Cards
Despite Leão’s comments, Milan remain in a strong negotiating position.
The winger is still under contract until 2028, meaning the Rossoneri are under no pressure to accept a cut-price offer.
Any club hoping to sign him will need to make a proposal that satisfies both Milan and the player.
That reality means this saga could become one of the defining transfer stories of the summer.
Rafael Leão has publicly confirmed what many suspected for months: he believes the time has come to leave AC Milan.
After seven seasons, a Serie A title and some of the most exciting performances of his career, the Portuguese winger is ready for a new challenge.
The question is no longer whether Leão wants to leave. The question is where one of Europe’s most talented attackers will play next.
FAQs
Why is Rafael Leão leaving AC Milan?
He says he feels ready for a new challenge and wants to experience another league.
How long has Leão been at Milan?
He joined from Lille in 2019 and spent seven seasons at the club.
When does his Milan contract expire?
His current contract runs until June 2028.
Which clubs are interested?
Manchester United and Arsenal have both been linked, although no deal has been agreed.
What is Leão’s biggest achievement at Milan?
Winning the 2021-22 Serie A title and becoming one of the league’s standout players.
