Leao stats 2025/2026: Complete goals, assists and performance metrics

Rafael Leao has delivered one of his most consistent and explosive campaigns in 2025/2026, emerging as AC Milan’s most dangerous attacking weapon with 18 goals and 12 assists across 43 appearances. Operating as a left-winger with inverted freedom, the Portuguese star has combined blistering pace with improved decision-making, making him a constant threat in Serie A and the Champions League.

• 18 goals and 12 assists in 43 games across all competitions
• Top 5 in Europe for progressive carries and xG+xA among wingers
• Improved defensive contribution and game intelligence compared to 2024/2025
• Named Serie A Player of the Month in October 2025 and February 2026

Leao stats 2025/2026: Full breakdown by competition

In Serie A, Leao featured in 34 matches, scoring 14 goals and providing 9 assists. His minutes per goal (128) and minutes per assist (161) reflect a significant leap in efficiency. In the Champions League, he added 3 goals and 2 assists in 7 games, helping Milan reach the quarter-finals before their elimination by Borussia Dortmund. In the Coppa Italia, he contributed 1 goal and 1 assist in two outings.

Leao averaged 3.4 shots per 90 minutes, up from 2.8 the previous season, with 58% of his attempts coming from inside the box. His passing accuracy sits at 79%, though his primary value lies in vertical progression rather than possession retention.

Compared to last season: Better or worse?

In 2024/2025, Leao recorded 15 goals and 10 assists in 40 games. This season, he has improved his combined output from 0.63 to 0.70 goals + assists per 90. His xG (expected goals) has risen to 0.48 per 90 from 0.41, indicating higher-quality chances and smarter positioning. Analysts suggest his maturity is evident in reduced wasteful dribbling and better link-up play with midfielders like Yılmaz and Reijnders.

His progressive carries average 8.3 per 90 minutes — among the highest in Europe — while his success rate (61%) underscores his reliability in transition. Defensively, he’s averaging 1.8 successful duels and 0.9 interceptions per 90, a subtle but meaningful improvement.

Advanced metrics: What the data really says

According to StatsBomb, Leao ranks in the 92nd percentile for dribbles completed (2.9 per 90) and 88th for touches in the opposition box (4.7 per game). His xG+xA (expected goals + expected assists) stands at 0.83 per 90, placing him among Europe’s elite wingers. Milan’s attack has become increasingly reliant on his individual brilliance.

Experts believe Leao has evolved from a raw speedster into a complete forward who now combines explosiveness with tactical intelligence.

His non-penalty foul rate (0.6 per 90) remains low, reflecting improved discipline. Opta data also highlights that 7 of his 18 goals came in transition, underlining his devastating impact in counter-attacks.

Where Leao ranks among Europe’s best in 2026

Among wingers in Europe’s top five leagues, Leao ranks 6th for combined goals and assists, behind only Vinícius Jr., Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, Jamal Musiala, and Federico Dimarco. In Serie A, he leads all wide attackers in goal contributions and is second only to Nicolò Barella in creative influence.

His performance against Inter in April 2026 — a solo run followed by a clinical finish — was hailed as one of the season’s defining moments. He’s now widely regarded as one of the few players capable of deciding a match within seconds of gaining possession.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How many goals has Leao scored in 2025/2026?

A: Rafael Leao has scored 18 goals in all competitions during the 2025/2026 season — 14 in Serie A, 3 in the Champions League, and 1 in the Coppa Italia. This marks his most productive and consistent offensive campaign to date.

Q: Is Leao having a good season?

A: Yes, Leao is having arguably his best season yet. With 18 goals, 12 assists, and consistent high-level performances, he has matured into a complete attacker. His improved decision-making, defensive work rate, and clutch performances in big games have solidified his status as AC Milan’s talisman.

Q: What team does Leao play for?

A: In 2026, Rafael Leao plays for AC Milan in Serie A. He remains under contract until 2028 and is a central figure in the club’s long-term project, often compared to legends like Kaká and George Weah for his flair and game-breaking ability.