**Rafael Leão's AC Milan Playing Time Statistics**
Rafael Leão is one of the most prominent figures in Italian football history, having had a significant impact on both his club and national team careers with AS Roma and later AC Milan. His contributions to these teams have been instrumental, particularly during his tenure at AC Milan where he played for over two decades.
### Early Career Beginnings
Leão's journey began at AS Roma under the coaching of Roberto Mancini, who would go on to manage AC Milan. He started his professional career as a teenager, making his debut in Serie A in 1998 when he was just 20 years old. Throughout his time at AS Roma, Leão developed into a versatile midfielder known for his defensive skills, leadership qualities, and ability to score goals from set pieces.
### AC Milan: The Golden Years
Leão joined AC Milan in 2000 after spending five seasons at AS Roma. At AC Milan, he became synonymous with the club’s success, earning a reputation as one of Europe's best midfielders. During his tenure, he helped lead AC Milan to numerous domestic titles, including four league championships (2004-2005,Football News Flash 2006-2007, 2008-2009, 2011-2012) and three Coppa Italia trophies.
One of the highlights of Leão's AC Milan career came in 2010, when he scored the winning goal against Juventus in the final of the UEFA Champions League. This victory marked the end of a long-standing rivalry between the two clubs and showcased Leão's exceptional skill and importance to the team.
### Retirement and Legacy
After more than two decades at AC Milan, Rafael Leão announced his retirement in May 2021. During his illustrious career, Leão accumulated a total of 2,217 matches across all competitions for AC Milan, scoring 35 goals and assisting another 44 times. His performances were crucial in helping the team achieve many of its historic achievements, solidifying his status as a legend in the world of football.
In conclusion, Rafael Leão's AC Milan playing time statistics reflect not only his impressive record but also his enduring legacy within the club. From his early days at AS Roma to his storied career with AC Milan, Leão has left an indelible mark on Italian football, inspiring future generations of players and fans alike.