Rafael Leao has confirmed he is ready to leave AC Milan after seven seasons, with the Portugal international eager to begin a new chapter following the 2026 World Cup.
Rafael Leao has effectively confirmed that his long association with AC Milan is coming to an end, revealing his desire to pursue a new challenge after spending seven years with the Italian giants.
Speaking to the media, the 26-year-old admitted he feels he has achieved everything he set out to accomplish at San Siro and is now ready to test himself in a different league.
Leao expressed gratitude to AC Milan for the role the club played in his development, explaining that they supported him through difficult periods and helped him establish himself as one of Europe’s top attacking talents.
🚨💣 BREAKING: Rafa Leão has decided to LEAVE AC Milan this summer. 🔴⚫️👋🏾
“I’m proud as I made history at AC Milan but I want new chapter. I feel ready to play in another league” 👀
“I did my best for Milan, but it’s time to try another challenge”, told @sporttvportugal. pic.twitter.com/qCb2PaKduh
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 30, 2026
While he stopped short of naming a preferred destination, the Portugal international made it clear that he remains focused on the upcoming World Cup before making any final decisions regarding his future.
The winger joined AC Milan from Lille in 2019 and quickly became one of the club’s most influential players. His pace, creativity, and ability to produce decisive moments helped transform Milan into Serie A title contenders.
Leao played a pivotal role in the Rossoneri’s 2021/22 Scudetto-winning campaign, earning the league’s Most Valuable Player award as Milan ended their long wait for a league title.
During his time at the club, he made more than 200 appearances, scored over 50 goals, provided more than 40 assists, and helped guide Milan to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2023, cementing his place among the club’s modern icons.
However, Milan’s failure to qualify for the Champions League this season appears to have accelerated his desire for a fresh start. With interest expected from clubs across Europe and Saudi Arabia, Leão now looks set to leave San Siro with a sense of accomplishment as he prepares for the next chapter of his career.
