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With the game against Real Madrid on the horizon, Samuel Chukwueze is unlikely to play from the start despite recent impressive performances
AC Milan coach Paulo Fonseca has confirmed that star winger Rafael Leao will return to the starting lineup for the Champions League clash against Real Madrid.
After resting on the bench for Milan’s last three Serie A fixtures, the Portuguese forward is set to start on Tuesday night at the Santiago Bernabeu, a decision likely to impact Nigerian forward Samuel Chukwueze’s minutes on the pitch.
Fonseca confirms Leao’s return
During Monday’s pre-match press conference, Fonseca was confident in Leao’s impact, stating, “He will start tomorrow. We expect him to be able to do what he usually can.”
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Despite Milan's recent victories, Leao’s absence from the lineup had become a notable talking point, especially given his five-goal contributions this Serie A season.
However, Leao has yet to find his form in the Champions League, where he’s still awaiting his first goal involvement.
Fonseca, who stressed the importance of following his instincts, confirmed that reintroducing Leao is essential for Milan’s game plan against Real Madrid.
Chukwueze likely to see reduced game time
Leao’s starting role may result in a diminished role for Samuel Chukwueze, who has been featuring more prominently during Leao’s recent benching.
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Chukwueze, who joined Milan in the summer, had been gaining momentum as a starting option in recent Serie A fixtures after three consistent appearances from the start.
However, with AC Milan’s attention now focused on maximising Leao’s influence, Chukwueze may be limited to a substitute role in the club’s biggest game of the season.
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Fonseca will lead his AC Milan side in the Champions League, and his confidence is clearly in Leao as a game-changer, hoping the Portuguese star can deliver against one of Europe’s toughest sides.
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