Rafael Leao is currently not expected to be able to start Monday night's game against Napoli, forcing Massimiliano Allegri to change his plans. Positive signs arrived regarding Leao's condition from Milanello on Thursday, but it's not yet clear whether they're conclusive.
The ongoing discussions regarding future structural changes to the game, such as the introduction of new tournaments (eg. Fifa Club World Cup), further intensify this challenge. These changes have the potential to significantly reduce the downtime available to elite players, affecting their recovery and overall well-being.
"Playing for Benfica, just like at Barça, is out of love. I have one year left on my contract; if I have to play in Saudi Arabia, I'll play; if I have to play in Europe, I'll play. It will depend on Al Hilal. When Barcelona calls, you can't refuse. I feel at home here; I've adapted very well."
At 18, he was already an unmistakable star. The Brazilian was scoring at an astonishing rate down the road in Eindhoven, a heady mix of swashbuckling stepovers and dazzling dribbles complemented by the coldest of finishes for PSV earning him world-record moves to Barcelona and then Inter before he hit 21.
