Rafael Leao admits he's not a 'selfish' player like Cristiano Ronaldo as AC Milan star outlines plan to reach same level as Portugal team-mate, Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland

The Portugal international has already made impressive progress down that track – becoming a talismanic presence at San Siro. He is still only 24 years of age, with time on his side when it comes to reaching the levels enjoyed by fellow countryman Ronaldo, eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi and fellow next generation stars Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.

Leao confirmed that Ronaldo remains his main "idol" in the game to Sky Sport Italia, and was then asked if he can emulate the best in the world, to which the Portuguese forward replied: “Yes, but I'm not selfish. I can score goals but if I can also provide assists, I pass to my team-mate. At these levels the numbers make the difference because Mbappe, Haaland, Messi make numbers that speak for themselves. When I think like them, I will get to that level.”

Leao also believes that he could slot easily into a world XI for 2024, adding: “Yes, because I'm doing well and I know I can stay there. Other players of my age are now at a higher level than me but yes.” Asked to piece together that side, Leao said – with Ronaldo overlooked: “4-3-3. [Mike] Maignan, [Joao] Cancelo on the right, Theo [Hernandez] on the left, Thiago Silva in the centre with… [Virgil] van Dijk? No… Ruben Dias. In midfield [Jude] Bellingham, [Kevin] De Bruyne, [Luka] Modric. And in front Leao on the left, Vinicius on the right and Mbappe centre forward.”

Leao, who won the Serie A title with Milan in 2021-22, has registered four goals through 20 appearances for the Rossoneri this season – with more being demanded from him alongside fellow forwards such as Olivier Giroud and USMNT star Christian Pulisic.