Rafael Leao explains why he 'prefers' Christian Pulisic in No.10 role for AC Milan as he reveals 'let's kill them' message to USMNT star

The United States international joined the Serie A side from Chelsea last summer and enjoyed a fruitful debut season, scoring 12 goals and setting up a further eight in 36 league appearances as Milan finished second to city rivals Inter.

Portugal winger Leao was not surprised by the impact the 25-year-old had on his arrival at San Siro, revealing that he sent a message to the ex-Borussia Dortmund star before the season started.

"I knew the quality of Christian [Pulisic]. When he arrived, I sent him a message and I told him ‘bro, let’s kill them’. I needed someone like him," he told ESPN.

Pulisic played most frequently on the wings under Stefano Pioli, but was often trusted in a more central role, and Leao would prefer to see him continue in the No. 10 position when they get up and running with new coach Paulo Fonseca.

“I’m very happy to have him as a team-mate, he’s a player who can change the game in a second," he added. "I’m happy with him and I expect him to repeat himself, or rather maybe improve further in the season that is about to begin. I’m not a coach, but I prefer Christian when he plays as a number 10. From the centre he has the ability to occupy space both on the left and on the right. I think he can be very dangerous in that position, but in general he does very well both as an attacking midfielder and on the right. As a 10 he would give me some assists, we could play fast, with one-twos or with a touch in the middle of the field… he can do everything.”

Pulisic, Leao and their Milan co-stars are currently in the United States in preparation for the new Serie A season. They face Real Madrid in their next game, followed by a clash with Barcelona next week. Their domestic campaign kicks off with a meeting with Torino on August 17.