Portuguese coach says Rafael Leao did not merit World Cup call-up after poor Milan season
Quick summary
Former Benfica assistant Álvaro Magalhães said Rafael Leão should not have been selected for Portugal’s 2026 World Cup squad because of his poor season with AC Milan. Leão was still included by Roberto Martínez despite weak recent output and criticism over his form.
What happened
Álvaro Magalhães publicly criticised Rafael Leão’s inclusion in Portugal’s 2026 World Cup squad, calling his AC Milan season 'disastrous' and saying in-form players should have been preferred. The article notes Leão has not scored in Serie A since March 1 and has produced 10 goals and three assists in 30 appearances across all competitions. It also cites a statistic suggesting Milan have earned more points when Leão has not been on the pitch. Despite the criticism, Portugal coach Roberto Martínez has kept Leão in the squad for the tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.
Chance analysis
This matters mainly as a form signal rather than a confirmed lineup change. Public criticism of Leão’s season reinforces concerns about his current attacking efficiency and consistency heading into the World Cup. However, because he remains in the squad, the practical football impact is limited unless it is followed by reduced minutes or a benching.
Leão’s stock is dented by renewed scrutiny over form, creating a mild negative signal for his individual and Portugal attacking expectations.
Treat this as a negative form/context signal on Rafael Leão and Portugal's attacking reliability, but not as confirmed availability or lineup news.