Zlatan Ibrahimovic backs Rafael Leao after tough spell

Zlatan Ibrahimović has come to the defense of Rafael Leão, who has recently faced criticism following subdued performances and early substitutions in matches against Napoli and Juventus, CE Report quotes Kosova Press.

In an interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Zlatan spoke warmly about the Portuguese forward:

"Leão is magic. During pre-season he was the best, then he was out for two months, and now he has to get back to form. We expect magic from him, because he’s one of the best players in the world. When we won the Scudetto, I can say he won it for us."

Despite his current off-field role, Ibrahimović stressed he remains close to the team:

"I'm still Ibra. I've learned that sometimes you have to be softer to get into the players’ heads. I was in the dressing room with them in Turin — everyone was angry, even Leão, because we could’ve won."

Ibrahimović believes Milan is ready to fight for the Serie A title again:

"This team is very competitive and can achieve great results. Milan’s DNA is about winning — especially in Europe. No one changes Milan; Milan changes you. And yes, I believe in the Scudetto."

And in typical Zlatan fashion, he finished with a touch of his signature swagger:

"I’m still God. If I were on the field, I’d have all the answers. In the stands, I suffer because I can’t help, but everything I do is for Milan."