Rafael Leao’s Tearful Milan Farewell: ‘The Love Will Never End’

FolioPitch.com – 29 August 2026 | In an emotionally charged farewell, Leao confirms he cried a lot with exit close The love I have for Milan will never end, as the Portuguese winger prepares to leave AC Milan after seven defining seasons. The 25-year-old, who has been a cornerstone of the Rossoneri attack since arriving in 2019, will now head to Galatasaray in a deal reportedly worth €50 million, ending a saga that saw Aston Villa also vie for his signature.

Leao’s departure was confirmed on the sidelines of Milan’s 2-0 victory over Venezia on Saturday, where he was present to cheer his soon-to-be-former teammates. Speaking to Sky Sport Italia after the match, he opened his heart about the difficulty of saying goodbye. “Yes, it’s a difficult time. I said goodbye to my team-mates after seven years with them. The club has always supported me, helped me grow, and made me understand what high standards mean, representing a great club like AC Milan,” he revealed.

The exit had been brewing for weeks, with Leao’s interviews in Portuguese media hinting at a desire for a new challenge. The late-window battle between Aston Villa and Galatasaray intensified as both clubs offered around €50 million, but it was the Turkish side’s charm and superior salary offer that ultimately won the race. Leao leaves behind a remarkable legacy: 291 appearances, 80 goals, and 65 assists, along with the Scudetto, the Supercoppa Italiana, and a memorable run to the 2022-23 Champions League semi-finals.

Despite the transfer, Leao’s love for Milan remains unwavering. “That’s how it is, life is like this: we learn, we say goodbye. It’s not a love that’s over, because the love I have for Milan will never end. I’ll watch it from afar,” he said. His words echoed the sentiment that Leao confirms he cried a lot with exit close The love I have for Milan will never end, a phrase that resonates with fans who have watched him evolve from a promising talent to a world-class star.

Reflecting on his best memories, Leao pointed to the trophies he won. “When you win trophies, they’re the things that stay with you the most, you know what they are. I’ll remember them until the end.” He also addressed the nature of his departure, answering whether it was his choice or forced upon him. “These are moments like this, when you have to make decisions and make other choices. AC Milan will always be AC Milan. The team is top-notch, with a great coach; we haven’t been together long, but Amorim is very good, he’s determined, and he can help AC Milan achieve important things,” he added, referring to new coach Sergio Amorim.

Leao praised Amorim’s style of play, saying, “He plays the kind of football I like, I like Amorim’s football. I’ll be watching Milan from afar. I wish them all the best.” His gratitude extended to everyone at the club. “Everyone who has represented Milan has helped me. This is life, it’s a cycle. Even if it doesn’t end here. Milan will continue to do great things for their fans. The important thing is that Milan is at the top and continues to win. I wish them the best,” he stated.

The emotional weight of the moment was evident when asked if he had cried. “I cried, a lot, it’s normal, the emotion is normal,” he admitted. This heartfelt admission underscores the deep connection he developed with the club and its supporters. As he prepares to embark on a new chapter in Istanbul, the phrase Leao confirms he cried a lot with exit close The love I have for Milan will never end serves as a poignant reminder of his enduring affection for the Rossoneri.

Leao’s impact on Milan cannot be overstated. From his breakout season in 2021-22, where he was named Serie A MVP, to his crucial goals in the Scudetto triumph, he became a symbol of the club’s resurgence. His departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains intact. The fans will remember his dazzling dribbles, his decisive strikes, and his unwavering commitment.

As Milan moves forward with Amorim at the helm, they will need to fill the void left by Leao’s creativity and goal threat. The club has already shown resilience, and with a strong squad, they aim to compete for domestic and European honors. For Leao, the next chapter in his career offers new challenges and opportunities, but his heart will always bear the red and black.

In conclusion, Rafael Leao‘s farewell to AC Milan is a testament to the deep bonds forged in football. While his departure is bittersweet, his message is clear: the love he holds for the club will never fade. Leao confirms he cried a lot with exit close The love I have for Milan will never end, and as he begins a new journey, Milanisti worldwide will wish him nothing but success, knowing that their paths may cross again someday.