Rafael Leao Removes AC Milan from Instagram: Transfer Imminent After World Cup Disappointment

FolioPitch.com – 08 July 2026 | The rift between AC Milan and Rafael Leao has deepened, with the latest developments indicating a definitive split this summer. Reports from Calciomercato.com have highlighted that CM Milan disappointed by World Cup performances as Leao removes Rossoneri from Instagram, signaling the end of his tenure at the San Siro. The Portuguese winger, who was expected to be a key figure for both club and country, had a lackluster World Cup campaign in Qatar, and his relationship with the Rossoneri has soured to the point where he has deleted any reference to the club from his social media biography.

Leao’s World Cup involvement was minimal under Portugal coach Roberto Martinez, who frequently rotated his lineup. The 23-year-old was primarily used as a substitute, and when he did get minutes, he failed to make a significant impact. AC Milan had hoped that a strong tournament would boost his market value beyond the €60 million asking price, but instead, his subdued performances have left potential suitors hesitant. The club’s frustration is palpable, with sources confirming that CM Milan disappointed by World Cup performances as Leao removes Rossoneri from Instagram, further straining an already tense relationship.

The Instagram move is a clear statement of intent. Leao now lists only his personal brand and the Portuguese national team in his profile, omitting AC Milan entirely. This follows months of speculation about his future, with Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Paris Saint-Germain all linked, though concrete offers have yet to materialize. The €60 million valuation may need to be adjusted, as the World Cup did little to enhance his reputation.

For AC Milan, the situation represents a missed opportunity. The club had banked on Leao being a star at the World Cup to attract top-tier bids. Instead, his indifferent performances have complicated negotiations. The phrase ‘CM Milan disappointed by World Cup performances as Leao removes Rossoneri from Instagram’ encapsulates the current state of affairs: a talented player whose stock has fallen, and a club that feels let down. The separation appears inevitable, with both parties seemingly ready to move on.

Leao’s removal of the club from Instagram is not merely a symbolic gesture; it reflects a deeper discontent. Contract renewal talks have stalled, and his agent has been actively seeking a move. The World Cup was supposed to be a shop window, but it only served to widen the gap. AC Milan’s disappointment is understandable, as they had invested heavily in his development. However, the club is now focused on recouping a significant fee, even if it means lowering their asking price.

As the January transfer window approaches, the saga is expected to intensify. Leao’s camp is pushing for a move, while AC Milan are eager to resolve the situation. The narrative of CM Milan disappointed by World Cup performances as Leao removes Rossoneri from Instagram continues to dominate headlines, and it seems only a matter of time before the divorce is finalized. For now, both sides are in a standoff, but the writing is on the wall: Rafael Leao’s time at AC Milan is drawing to a close.

In conclusion, the combination of a disappointing World Cup and the Instagram removal has accelerated the inevitable separation. AC Milan will now look to sell Leao in the upcoming transfer windows, while the player seeks a fresh start elsewhere. The club’s disappointment is matched only by the uncertainty surrounding his next destination. One thing is clear: the bond between Leao and the Rossoneri has been severed, and the coming months will define the next chapter for both parties.