Capello: Where and how Leao needs to improve under Allegri at AC Milan

Fabio Capello expects consistent ‘high-level performances’ from Milan star Rafael Leao and suggests: ‘He should do what I used to do with Ibra…’

Milan have begun their pre-season preparations at Milanello and new Rossoneri boss Allegri is already taking care of Leao, who is expected to stay at San Siro beyond the summer.

Leao reached double figures for goals and assists across all competitions in the 2024-25 season, but the Rossoneri failed to qualify for any European tournament and only won the Supercoppa Italiana last term.

Capello spoke about Leao in his latest interview with Gazzetta, explaining what he expects from the Portuguese player in the 2025-26 season.

Capello expects ‘high-level performances’ from Leao

“From someone like him, it’s fair to expect high-level performances consistently,” said the ex-Italian coach.

“Allegri has to find a way to bring that out of him, because his talent is unquestionable. In the meantime, he’d have to work a lot on his finishing. He often gets into shooting positions, but then misses. He needs specific drills for finishing; basically, getting used to shooting from different angles with someone who can tell him where he’s getting it wrong. He also needs to improve his positioning off the ball.

“The real step up in quality has to come within himself,” Capello continued.

Helping the team defensively will also be crucial in Leao’s development next season.

“PSG strikers run up and down with no need to ask them. He must feel the desire to help his teammates,” said Capello.

“Max believes a lot in Rafa, because he believes in quality players. Right now, he’s still trying to motivate him, but we’ll have to see what happens later.

Capello suggests training drills for Leao

“Leao needs to improve in front of the goal. With the chances he manages to create, he has to miss a lot less. They need to do what I used to do with Ibra at the end of training sessions.”

Capello coached Ibrahimovic at Juventus between 2004 and 2006 and said multiple times that he improved the ex-striker’s shooting through specific training drills after every training session.

Capello is a former Milan coach who won four Serie A titles and one Champions League at San Siro.