Milan’s prominent figure, Rafael Leao, elucidates the rationale behind his consistent display of smiles on the football pitch, divulges his encounter with Kanye West, and expresses his aspiration for a world devoid of racial discrimination.
In a recent interview with Il Corriere della Sera, Leao delved into both his personal life and professional trajectory. The interview coincided with the unveiling of his book, ‘Smile,’ at an event held in Milan last week.
Initially queried about the recurring presence of his smile during matches, Leao offered insights into his disposition on the field.
“I tell my own story. I am only 24, and I know there is still a lot to write about, especially as a footballer, but I’d like to explain to the fans who I really am and why I smile,” he replied.
“There are people who have no water. When you can walk and have food and somebody loves you, life is a smile. I have everything and even more. God gave me a gift and I am grateful. My job is to play football, and I have fulfilled my childhood dream. How could I not smile?”
Nevertheless, football does not solely encapsulate Leao’s fervor, as the Portugal international harbors no intentions of confining himself to the realm of football upon the culmination of his playing career.
“Surely I won’t remain in football when I retire. I’ve been in this environment for 10 years and had many experiences. I want to stay away from this sort of stress, stay close to my family and focus on other passions I have,” which include music and fashion.
“I became a rap fan by listening to songs on my mobile. I was crazy for Eminem as a kid. Then I started writing songs. I knew Kanye West before Genoa-Milan. Now there is football; in the future, we’ll see,” he continued.
Leao recently became the subject of racially motivated harassment from a Milan supporter on Instagram, a matter that drew attention and condemnation from the Rossoneri community on various social media platforms.
“There are too many people like this, unfortunately. It’s a lack of education at school and within the family,” said the striker.
“He doesn’t even know what he did and this is the problem. Racists don’t even realise they are racists.”
However, Leao feels this issue does not affect Italy only.
“Unfortunately, racism is everywhere this is why we footballers must do something given that we have popularity,” he admitted.
“We must use this strength and send signals. Milan are very sensible about this and you saw it after what happened with Mike Maignan in Udine. We did the right thing. It was right to left the pitch.”
Combatting racism is a priority for the Portuguese forward, who additionally bears tattoos depicting figures such as Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela.
“To us black people, they are two great men who fought until the end to make everyone understand that we are all the same. I wanted to have their messages on me forever. I have many dreams, one of which is a world without racism,” admitted the 24-year-old.
“I am a God believer, I am catholic. Many thought I was Muslim, maybe because of my skin or my African roots. I used to go to mass every Sunday, but now I can no longer do it because of games, but prayers are part of my life.”
In regard to his enduring aspirations within his football career, Leao articulated, “It is imperative for me to achieve significant triumphs to foster further advancement. This encompasses winning either the Champions League or Europa League. It is essential to acknowledge that accomplishments can fade into obscurity swiftly, thus emphasizing the necessity to strive for success annually. Being affiliated with Milan, it transcends being a mere preference; rather, it imposes an obligation to etch one’s name into the annals of history.
Why is he often associated with a surfer on social media?
“I’ve never surfed in my life, but it’s a way of living because a surfer tries again and again, he never gives up,” he replied.
“The wave arrives sooner or later and you must be ready when it comes.”
Leao insisted that picking the No.10 last summer did not put more pressure on him. On the contrary, “It gives me more strength. The Number 10 is football.”
Lastly, he spoke about love relationships and why he hasn’t had one that lasts in time.
“I can’t entirely open my heart, I fear somebody can hurt me. I can’t let myself go or build something that lasts in time. But I know I want to have kids before I turn 30. Maybe I am scared that kids would feel the same as me. Grow up in the same places and see parents splitting up. I’d like to transmit that love relationship I didn’t experience.”