Amorim downplays Rafael Leao as Aston Villa emerge as option

Ruben Amorim told reporters that Rafael Leao’s situation at AC Milan is "not important" even as the winger’s agents have reportedly offered him to Aston Villa, leaving the forward’s future uncertain.

While his agents have reportedly offered him to AC Milan, coach Ruben Amorim stated that Rafael Leao's situation "is not important" at the moment. Rafael Leao’s future at AC Milan remains one of the premier sagas of the summer transfer window.

With reports circulating that his representatives offered him to Aston Villa, head coach Ruben Amorim dismissed the noise, labeling the situation “not important”. He emphasized that the club’s focus remains on the collective squad.

Serie A debut and squad selection

Amorim made his official Serie A managerial debut on Sunday against Torino. He guided AC Milan to a hard‑fought 2‑1 victory in his first competitive match in charge.

The most notable omissions from the Rossoneri squad were players currently resolving potential exits, with Leao sidelined alongside Christopher Nkunku, Fikayo Tomori, and Youssouf Fofana. Ahead of kickoff, Amorim noted that Leao was not fit to travel to Turin due to an injury.

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Speaking to Rai Sport post‑match, the Portuguese manager offered a blunt assessment: “Rafa Leao is not important, in this or in any moment.” He added that the team’s unity and the emergence of 19‑year‑old Cissé were more important than any individual.

Amorim highlighted Cissé’s performance in the No. 10 role alongside Ruben Loftus‑Cheek, noting Cissé scored one of Milan’s two goals against Torino. The 19‑year‑old earned his breakthrough opportunity for Milan.

AC Milan return to action on Friday, August 28, against Venezia at the San Siro for Matchday 2 of the Serie A season, with Leao expected to remain sidelined while his agents continue to explore options. Amorim said the club will see what happens at the end of the market.

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Potential Premier League destination

Aston Villa have emerged as a potential destination; transfer insider Fabrizio Romano reported that Leao’s agents offered him to the Premier League club, prompting Villa ownership to discuss a deal. Direct talks between Milan executive Gerry Cardinale and Villa leadership initially focused on Tomori before Leao’s name entered the dialogue.

The potential move remains in its early stages, with the initial contact coming from Leao’s representatives rather than a formal inquiry, leaving the final decision to the decision‑makers in Birmingham. A transfer to a Champions League‑bound Premier League side aligns with the forward’s sporting ambitions.