Rafael Leao ended up in the spotlight after AC Milan’s 2-1 defeat to Parma last night, caught on camera shushing a Rossoneri fan in the stands. On his Instagram, the Portuguese winger explained why he made the gesture.
Leao didn’t have the best of games despite bagging a nice assist, failing to track back and giving the ball away just before the winning goal. After the game, he couldn’t contain his emotions and made a shushing gesture towards Milan fans in the stands.
Many feared that this was directed at the Curva Sud, the Milan ultras, but Leao explained in an Instagram post that this wasn’t the case. He also made it clear that the Rossoneri gave their all on the pitch, though many will disagree about that.
“The gesture was never and will never be directed at Curva Sud, because they have always been with me in the most difficult moments… and maybe they are the only real fans who stand by us in tough times. I see opinions from some Milan fans that, to me, are inhumane… I think they are more like internet fans.
“The gesture was meant for a specific fan who made a negative comment while we were losing. No Milan player steps onto the field to play poorly on purpose. We honour this shirt from the beginning to the end of every game.
“I will continue to take risks as I always have, that’s what makes me different. I will not change my way of playing because I’ve taken risks. Yesterday’s game is already behind us, now it’s time to focus on the next battle.
