Why Kylian Mbappe has a 'special connection' with AC Milan

Tom Weber

• 8 May 2023 16:56 BST
• 3 min read

Rafael Leao has told Kylian Mbappe to join him at AC Milan given the Frenchman's 'special connection' with the Rossoneri.

Once nicknamed the Portuguese Mbappe by now-PSG sporting director Luis Campos, Rafael Leao has done pretty well for himself even if he has not quite lived up to his early moniker. The attacker has become one of Europe's hottest commodities since making the move to AC Milan.

Despite being wanted by some of the continent's biggest sides, Leao wants to remain loyal and sign a new deal with the Italian club. In fact, not only is he trying to help Milan get back to the top of Serie A with his own performances, but he is also attempting to recruit Kylian Mbappe to help out.

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During a conversation with fans, Leao recently said of Mbappe: "He's the best player I've met. He's already a fan of the Rossoneri, he should come to Milan!" This is a reference to statements made by Mbappe last year, in which he admitted to supporting Milan as a child.

What did Mbappe say?

Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, Mbappe remarked: "When I was a child, I had an Italian nanny and I spent a lot of time with her family. They are all Milan supporters. So, thanks to them, I also cheered on the Rossoneri and watched a lot of Milan games."

Moreover, at the ceremony of FIFA's The Best awards in February, Mbappe responded to a question asking if he would move to Serie A by saying that he would only join AC Milan. Indeed, the 24-year-old says that he has a 'special connection' with the Italian club.

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A move is, of course, unlikely to materialise anytime soon, especially as Mbappe continues to be linked with a transfer to Real Madrid - another club he supported growing up - every season.