Diogo Dalot Discusses Gonçalo Ramos and Rafael Leão at Milan

Diogo Dalot knows what it means to arrive at San Siro as a young Portuguese talent with big expectations. So when he talks about Gonçalo Ramos and Rafael Leão at Milan, it comes with the weight of experience rather than polite praise.

The Manchester United full-back, who spent the 2020-21 season on loan with the Rossoneri, spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport about his two international teammates and the roles they can play in Milan’s present and future.

Dalot hails Ramos as ‘a fantastic signing’

Asked first about Gonçalo Ramos, Dalot did not hold back.

“I think Gonçalo is a fantastic player to have in the team. The way he works, the way he trains, the way he behaves, the way he's always ready to help the team,” he said, underlining not just the striker’s goals but his daily standards.

“I believe he's been a fantastic signing for the club and I'm really happy he's had this opportunity, because it's a fantastic club. I think he'll really enjoy his time in Milan and I hope he can help the club achieve success and fight for every trophy this season.”

Dalot’s words echo what Milan are banking on: Ramos as a modern centre-forward, pressing, linking play, and carrying the weight of a club that expects to compete on all fronts.

A different tone for Leão: admiration and a warning

When the conversation moved to Rafael Leão, the tone shifted. It became more personal, more protective.

“I've known Leao since I was 15 and I've talked about him many times,” Dalot said. “He's a great person, a great human being with a big heart, as well as being a fantastic footballer. That's what makes him special, and I think Milan's fans recognise that too.”

Leão’s long-term future has been a talking point all summer, with his name linked to Galatasaray and speculation swirling around his next move. Dalot didn’t address the rumours directly, but he did underline what Milan and their supporters represent to the winger.

“For all the years he's been there playing for the club, I think it's important for him to also feel that the fans like him and that the whole environment around him cares for him. And I think in recent years it's been a fantastic partnership.”

That word – partnership – feels key. Player and club, talent and stage.

“So I really hope he can continue to be successful there, win more trophies, and be one of the best players the club has ever had,” Dalot added.

From someone who has worn the Milan shirt and now shares a dressing room with both Ramos and Leão for Portugal, it sounded less like a compliment and more like a challenge: Milan have the pieces. Can they build a team worthy of them?