Leao’s reaction to Chukwueze’s MVP award shock Milan fans as Pioli praises Eagles forward

Super Eagles forward Samuel Chukwueze was named Milan‘s MVP by Rossoneri fans after a 3-0 win over Lecce and Rafael Leao’s reaction on social media has made people talk.

Leao reacted with an exhaling emoji to the news that his teammate Chukwueze had been named Milan’s MVP for their latest Serie A win over Lecce.

This emoji represents relief but also disappointment or displeasure, so many fans commented on Leao’s post, telling the Portuguese to be happy for his teammate rather than frustrated with himself.

Leao probably wanted to express relief as he’s known to be a very close friend of Chukwueze. The Nigeria international had a slow start to life at Milan but has been showing steady improvements over the last few weeks.

When Chukwueze scored his first Serie A goal against Verona before the March break, Leao rejoiced on social media calling the ex-Villarreal winger “brother.”

Pioli heaps praise on ‘changed’ Chukwueze: “He believes in what he does”

Also, speaking to the media afterward, Stefano Pioli discussed the Nigerian’s recent growth.

Arriving from Villarreal in the summer, in a deal worth €20m plus an additional €8m in bonuses, high expectations were set on Chukwueze.

However, after a tough start to life at Milan, it’s only just now that the winger has started to show his true self.

Against Lecce, he was one of the best-rated players in our player ratings with a 7/10.

Speaking to MilanTV after the game, as cited by MilanNews, Pioli was asked about the recent growth of Chukwueze and what has changed.080 52 41 20 20

“His mind has changed. Now he has confidence, he’s positive, he believes in what he does. He understands what the team has to do on the pitch. He’s a quality player. I’m very happy for him because he’s been through a difficult time.

“From the outside looking in, everything seems rosy but the boys are experiencing significant pressure. He believed in it and worked hard, which pleases me, the club, and the team,” he stated.

Milan will be up against Roma next (in the Europa League) and it remains to be seen if Chukwueze will play from the start. With Ruben Loftus-Cheek back from his suspension, the feeling is that Christian Pulisic might get the nod on the right still.