Rafael Leao is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a winger for AC Milan in Serie A. The 23-year-old promising youngster looks set to play a key role for Portugal in the FIFA World Cup 2022.
In this article, you will know Rafael Leao’s net worth, salary, earnings, stats, girlfriend, and more.
Rafael Leao’s Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rafael Alexandre da Conceição Leão |
| Date of Birth | 10 June 1999 |
| Age | 25 |
| Education | Sporting CP Youth Academy Graduate |
| Nationality | Portuguese |
| Height | 188 cm (6′2″) |
| Weight | 81 kg (178 lbs) |
| Turned Pro | 2018 |
| Net Worth | £24 million |
| Salary/Career Earnings | £6.2 million per year |
| Partner | Ines Rebelo |
| Children | Twins Leonardo and Tiago |
| Instagram Profile | @rafaelleao7 |
| Twitter Profile | @rafaelleao97 |
Early Career
Rafael Leão joined Sporting Lisbon’s academy at just nine years old and quickly made waves with his dribbling and raw pace. After a decade developing his craft in Lisbon, he signed his first professional contract in 2018 and made four senior appearances, scoring once in Portugal’s top flight. A violent attack by disgruntled ultras on Sporting’s training ground prompted him to terminate that contract unilaterally and seek a fresh start.
His talent caught the eye of Lille in France, where he moved on a free transfer and adapted seamlessly to Ligue 1. In his lone season in northern France, he featured 26 times and netted eight goals, leaving an impression that would see Europe’s top clubs queue for his signature.
Professional Career
AC Milan secured Leão for around €35 million, betting on his potential to transform their attack. Early on, he adjusted to Serie A’s tactical demands, but by the 2020–21 campaign his confidence soared. He etched his name into the record books in December 2020 by scoring the fastest goal ever in Europe’s top five leagues—six seconds after kickoff against Sassuolo.
The following season he exploded for 11 league goals and 10 assists as Milan claimed the 2021–22 Scudetto, earning him the Serie A Most Valuable Player award. He extended his contract in mid-2023 through 2028, anchoring Milan’s rebuild. Internationally, he debuted for Portugal in October 2021 and featured at the 2022 World Cup and UEFA Euro 2024, adding vital goals in both tournaments.
Girlfriend
He is in a relationship with Portuguese influencer Ines Rebelo, and together Leão and his ex-girlfriend Debora Reis share twin sons, Leonardo and Tiago, born in November 2024. He rarely posts family photos, preferring to let his football do the talking while cherishing quiet moments away from the spotlight.
Rafael Leao’s Net Worth Details
Rafael Leao’s net worth is estimated to be £24 million as of 2025.
Contract
He signed a contract extension with AC Milan in June 2023 that runs through 30 June 2028. The deal features a €175 million release clause valid only in summer windows to protect the club’s interests. It also includes bonuses for goals, assists and team achievements—like qualifying for the Champions League—and a loyalty bonus paid at the end of each season he remains in Milan colors.
Salary
He earns about £7.6 million a season at AC Milan, which breaks down to roughly £147,000 a week and around £640,000 a month. His deal also includes individual performance bonuses for goals, assists and team achievements, making him one of the club’s highest-paid stars.
Career Earnings
| Season | Annual Salary (GBP) |
|---|---|
| 2021–22 | £1.5 million |
| 2022–23 | £6.2 million |
| 2023–24 | £6.2 million |
| 2024–25 | £6.2 million |
Endorsements
Leão’s financial portfolio extends beyond wages. He partners with adidas for boots and apparel, models for Belgian streetwear label Arte Antwerp, and collaborates with luxury brands like Prada on select campaigns. These deals add significant income and reinforce his image as a style icon off the pitch.
Career Stats
| Club | Years | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sporting CP | 2018 | 4 | 1 |
| Lille OSC | 2018–2019 | 26 | 8 |
| AC Milan | 2019–2025 | 259 | 70 |
| Total | 2018–2025 | 289 | 79 |
FAQs
1. What makes Rafael Leão stand out as a winger?
Leão combines explosive pace with close control, allowing him to glide past defenders. His low center of gravity and deceptive first touch give him an edge in one-on-one situations. He also tracks back when needed, showcasing growing tactical awareness.
2. How did Leão secure his move from Sporting to Lille?
After the attack by ultras at Sporting’s academy, Leão terminated his contract in 2018. He then signed a free-transfer deal with Lille, where he impressed by scoring eight goals in Ligue 1, proving his readiness for Europe’s elite leagues.
3. When did Leão win the Serie A MVP award?
Leão was named Serie A Most Valuable Player for the 2021–22 season after scoring 11 league goals and providing 10 assists. His performances helped AC Milan claim their first Scudetto in 11 years, cementing his reputation.
4. How long is Leão’s current contract with AC Milan?
He extended his contract in June 2023, tying him to AC Milan until 30 June 2028. The deal includes a €175 million release clause, which can only be activated during the summer window.
5. What endorsements does Leão have beyond football?
Leão partners with adidas as a boot and apparel ambassador. He fronts streetwear campaigns for Arte Antwerp and collaborates with luxury labels such as Prada. His fashion sense and social media presence drive these brand partnerships.
