"Leo is not important, Milan has to win tomorrow.

Ruben Amorim, the newly appointed head coach of AC Milan, has made his stance clear ahead of the team's opening match in Serie A against Torino on August 23. In a recent statement, Amorim emphasized that while Rafa Leao is a key player, he will not be available for the crucial game due to lack of training. The Portuguese coach stressed that the primary focus must be on securing victory, stating, "The Milan must win tomorrow. He hasn't trained." Amorim’s comments came as he prepared for his debut in Italian football, facing a familiar opponent in Ignazio Abate, who previously played for and later coached youth teams at Milan. The coach acknowledged Abate's deep understanding of Italian football and noted that the challenge would be significant, unlike matches against clubs such as Manchester United. Despite this, Amorim expressed confidence in both his team's readiness and Abate's ability to prepare effectively for the encounter. The new coach reiterated his belief that the ultimate goal for Milan is to win the league title. While acknowledging the current gap with Inter Milan, Amorim insisted that the team starts on equal footing and can beat any opposition. He admitted the pressure of being judged daily as a coach, emphasizing that nerves have always been a constant in his career. However, he expressed satisfaction with the players' work ethic and their growing cohesion into a unified team. Amorim also commented on the squad's composition, expressing full confidence in the players acquired during the transfer window. He highlighted the potential of new signing Diego Moreira, suggesting that the winger position might suit him best. This sentiment reflects Amorim's optimism regarding the integration of fresh talent into the squad. In discussing his relationship with club owner Jerry Cardinale, Amorim underscored the importance of shared responsibility among all members of the organization. He noted that Cardinale maintains open communication with everyone, including staff in the kitchen and those working in MilanLab, reinforcing a sense of collective purpose beyond just the coaching staff. For Amorim, the immediate priority remains focused on winning matches and delivering quality performances on the field. As the season approaches its start, Amorim's emphasis on victory and unity sets the tone for Milan's campaign. His approach highlights a blend of strategic preparation and psychological resilience, aiming to transform the team into a competitive force capable of challenging for the top honors in Serie A. With Leao sidelined and new faces stepping onto the pitch, the coming weeks will determine how effectively Amorim can implement his vision for the club.