According to reports, Leao came off the bench to make a decisive impact, securing three crucial points for AC Milan in a match complicated by an early goal from Genoa’s Vitinha. The player was initially not in the starting lineup but entered the field after Youssouf Fofana’s injury in the first half, a decision by coach Sergio Conceição that ultimately benefited the team.

The Portuguese star revealed in an interview with DAZN that Milan players held an internal meeting before the match to remind themselves of the importance of securing points in the final weeks of Serie A, despite their slim chances of European qualification: “We talked among ourselves and said these last few games are crucial, and we must collect as many points as possible.”

He also commented on the tactical changes in the team’s playing style: “The coach has changed the team’s system, and now we play more cohesively. I think we’ve only conceded two goals in the last few matches.”

Milan’s equalizer came from a Leao shot that deflected off a defender and into the net. Minutes later, his cross for João Félix also took a deflection and was credited as Milan’s winning goal.

Leao added: “I’m happy. We all work every day to help the team. Today, we showed that again. One of our teammates got injured, and the substitutes made the difference. I always try to contribute, whether I start or come off the bench.”

“Even Gabbia always gives me confidence. Sometimes he even shouts at me! We are all fully focused and trying to perform at our best. Of course, we want to win the title, but there’s still one more game to go.”