Rafael Leao was hugely impressive as Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 in the World Cup Round of 32.
Starting for the first time at the tournament, the AC Milan winger gave Croatia’s defence a torrid evening.
His pace, directness and ability to take on defenders gave Portugal a completely different look in attack.
He assisted Goncalo Ramos’ winner in stoppage time with a brilliant 40-yard cross, and was denied a goal himself by the woodwork from a ferocious strike near the edge of the box.
His display has got fans talking.
Fill the blanks: If Rafael Leao was Arsenal’s top summer target, I’d feel _________ 💬
Arsenal have been loosely linked with Leao for quite some time. He recently even admitted he likes the club and the city of London.
AC Milan value him at between €60-70m according to Di Marzio and are now ready to sell.
Intermediaries have already offered him to Premier League clubs, but Arsenal were among the first to decline. They were right to.
Arsenal should not be tempted by Rafael Leao
Leao’s talent is not in doubt. On his day, he is genuinely unplayable.
But “on his day” is the problem. Nine, eight and nine goals in his last three Serie A seasons point to a player who has never quite kicked on to the heights many expected.
His World Cup display is promising, much like Marcus Rashford’s Barcelona loan looked promising. That doesn’t make either player the right fit for Arsenal.
The main issue is his defensive work rate. Leao doesn’t press with intensity, doesn’t track back reliably, and simply won’t do the unglamorous work that Mikel Arteta demands from every player in his squad.
He is a luxury player and would be coming into a system with no room for luxuries. Arteta doesn’t take to players who only show up when they feel like it — the Matteo Guendouzi situation proved that years ago.
At £60million and the wages that he would command, that money would be wiser spent elsewhere.
🤔 PICK ONE: Would you rather Arsenal signed Bradley Barcola or Morgan Rogers this summer?
Morgan Rogers and Bradley Barcola are both much more desirable options — similarly gifted but also willing to contribute off the ball.
Leao had a great night against Croatia, but Arsenal should enjoy it and move on.
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