Rafael Leao reveals reasons he turned down Saudi Pro League

AC Milan forward Rafael Leao says playing in the UEFA Champions League is more valuable than plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League.

Leao was among a host of players who was approached by the Saudis to join them this summer. However, the winger signed a contract extension at the club instead.

Leao was heavily involved for Milan last season as they reached the semis of the Champions League before being knocked out by Inter Milan.

The forward believes the seven times champions are en route to winning the competition again.

“I believe that the club is on the right path. We managed to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League. Now the club’s objective must be to continue to rise, to continue to be strong. And I am sure that Milan will soon return to winning a Champions League, which is our goal. I speak for myself, I’m young, I’m a player who wants to win big things, I think the Champions League is every player’s dream and we’re working for this,” he told GQ Portugal.

“I have not yet achieved great results to go to a championship like that. Money speaks louder nowadays, but for me a Champions League is worth more than a salary of 10 million.”

The Portugal international has had a great to the 2023/24 season, scoring three goals and providing one assist in five games so far.