Allegri makes line-up decision on Milan star Rafael Leao for Napoli and Juventus games | OneFootball

Multiple sources claim that Milan star Rafael Leao will be available against Napoli on Sunday, but will only start on the bench, possibly making his 2025-26 Serie A debut as a substitute.

Rafael Leao is expected to be available for Milan against Napoli on Sunday, when the Rossoneri host the defending champions at San Siro in the big match of Serie A Week 5.

Leao expected to be available for Milan vs. Napoli

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Portuguese winger returned to group training on Thursday and, as reported by Gazzetta, he continued working with the rest of the team on Friday morning.

Leao has only made one appearance this season, having sustained a calf injury during a Coppa Italia match against Bari on August 17.

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 23: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, looks on prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and US Cremonese at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The Milan forward got injured just a few seconds after opening the account for the Rossoneri, netting his first and only goal so far this season.

While the 26-year-old is expected to be available for Sunday’s clash with Napoli, Massimiliano Allegri will likely keep him on the bench and give him his debut as a substitute in the second half.

Leao to start against Juventus?

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates with his team-mate Christian Pulisic after scoring the opening goal during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Allegri used Leao as a centre-forward during the pre-season, and the Portuguese will cover the same role if he’s involved against Napoli.

Milan will then visit Juventus before the international break on October 5, and if Leao’s progress continues, he may start against the Bianconeri.