Bergomi explains why Conceicao benches Leao | OneFootball

Inter legend Giuseppe Bergomi insisted that Sergio Conceiçao has good reasons to leave Milan star Rafael Leao on the bench, suggesting his choice could be a ‘tactical’ move rather than a ‘punishment’.

The Rossoneri coach didn’t include the Portuguese ace in the starting XI for the second consecutive time in Serie A against Verona, and just like in the previous week, the 25-year-old came on after the break to make a difference for his side.

Leao’s second-half displays against Empoli and Verona produced one goal and one assist, both of which allowed Milan to break the deadlock.

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 15: Rafael Leao and Alex Jimenez of AC Milan are pictured talking during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Verona at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 15, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

While some suggested that Conceiçao could be bothered by Leao’s attitude, Bergomi believes the manager has noticed his ability to make an impact as a substitute and is simply taking advantage of it.

Bergomi: Conceiçao keeps Leao on the bench as a ‘tactical choice’

“In my opinion, Conceição doesn’t punish him by keeping him on the bench,” the former defender told Sky Sport Italia, as quoted by TMW.

“He keeps him on the bench because when he comes on, he decides the match. I’ll give an example: Juventus against Inter had a certain attitude, but then something different clicked in the second half.

EMPOLI, ITALY – FEBRUARY 8: Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates after scoring a goal during the Serie A match between Empoli and AC Milan at Stadio Carlo Castellani on February 8, 2025 in Empoli, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

“Milan brought on Leao to win the games against Empoli and Verona at home, so it’s also a tactical choice to keep him on the bench.”

The Portugal international is expected to start against Feyenoord, as Milan look to overturn their 1-0 defeat in the first leg of the Champions League knockout play-off.