News Focus
- Rafael Leao received a red card for punching Ivan Roman in the face
- The incident happened during Portugal’s friendly against Chile in Oeiras
- Both players were sent off after the first-half fight
- The winger hopes to leave AC Milan for the Premier League or La Liga
Portugal winger Rafael Leao faces trouble after he was sent off for hitting an opponent during an international friendly. The AC Milan player struck Ivan Roman in the face shortly before half-time in Thursday’s match in Oeiras.
The game was a warm-up for the 2026 World Cup in North America. However, Leao’s match ended early when he became involved in a fight.
The problem started when Joao Cancelo and Chile’s Faundez began arguing. Roman tried to break it up, but Leao joined in and punched the Chilean defender. This started a bigger fight involving several players.
The referee gave red cards to both Leao and Roman. This is bad news for the 26-year-old, who has not started regularly for his club recently.
Coach Max Allegri has kept him out of the team lately, either because of suspension or selection choices. The player has said he wants to leave Serie A, with clubs in the Premier League and La Liga interested.
Thursday’s game was a chance for Leao to prove his value before a possible transfer. Instead, his angry reaction has raised concerns about his behaviour and could lower his price.
Milan are now less keen to keep the forward. This red card may push the club to sell him quickly.