Rafael Leao admits he has to “sense the goal more” as a centre-forward and was full of praise for Milan teammate Davide Bartesaghi’s new role against Cagliari.
The first half was inconsistent and littered with mistakes, but the Rossoneri picked up the pace after the restart and Rafael Leao scored the winner, assisted by Adrien Rabiot.
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Christian Pulisic and Luka Modric also forced saves, while Mike Magnan was largely undisturbed by Cagliari’s forwards.
Leo impressed by Milan youngster Bartsagi
CAgliari, Italy – January 2: Milan’s Rafael Leo tries to score during the Serie A match between Cagliari FC and AC Milan at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 2, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Lodge/Getty Images)
“It was a team performance, we prepared well and we knew it was more about mentality than technique,” Leo told Sky Sport Italia.
“Davide Barsagi plays in a new position as centre-back, but with the right mentality you can do anything. He’s doing great and he can do great things at Milan. If we all focus, it will become easier.”
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“David knows what I’m thinking, he’s very smart, he trains hard and, even though he’s young, he’s becoming an important player for this team. I think he’s going to achieve great things.”
Niklas Falkrug came on for the final 21 minutes, making his debut just hours after arriving on loan from West Ham United.
CAgliari, Italy – January 2: AC Milan’s Rafael Leo leaves the pitch during the Serie A match between Cagliari FC and AC Milan at Stadio Sant’Elia on January 2, 2026 in Cagliari, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Lodge/Getty Images)
“Nick also performed very well when he first came here. The team is in good shape and we are very happy. I feel that if I have two or three scoring opportunities, I must score two goals. The coach made me closer to the goal. I need to feel the goal more. I also thank the team for creating the conditions for me to score goals.”
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View Italian football player ratings Cagliari 0-1 Milan
Is Milan’s goal this season the Scudetto or Champions League qualification?
“We have goals but there is still a long way to go. The team knows what the club’s goals are, we are Milan and have to work hard to win important trophies.”
CAGLARI, ITALY – JANUARY 2: Cagliari’s Adam Aubert reacts as Milan’s Rafael Leao scores a goal during the Serie A match between Cagliari FC and AC Milan on January 2, 2026 at Cagliari Stadium, Italy. (Photo by Enrico Lodge/Getty Images)
There have been many changes to the starting lineup, with Christopher Nkunku and Santiago Jimenez injured, and Christian Pulisic, Strasinja Pavlovich and Mateo Gabbia having to sit on the bench.
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This means Barthage has to fill the void as a temporary part of the back three.
“I speak on the pitch. I’m happy to have the trust of the coach and the team and when they ask me for something, I try to give 100 per cent,” Batsagi told Sky Sport Italia.
“Leo always asks me to help him, but I tell him everything happens at the right time.”
