Del Piero: ‘Milan wasted a big chance against Juventus; Leao must want to be their symbol’

Following Juventus’ 0-0 draw with Milan at the Allianz Stadium on Sunday evening, Alessandro Del Piero offered a sharp assessment of the match and Milan’s missed opportunity to make a statement in the Scudetto race.

A missed penalty from Christian Pulisic and a couple of good chances left begging by Rafael Leao meant the Rossoneri failed to pick up the three points in Turin.

Speaking on Sky Sport, via MilanNews, the former Juventus captain said:

“Juve gained a point but Milan threw away a big opportunity. They could’ve sent an important message to themselves and to everyone else. Beyond the missed penalty, they had other chances to score. Winning matches like these can make the difference.”

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)

Del Piero offers advice to Leao

Del Piero praised Milan’s progress under Massimiliano Allegri but urged greater conviction:

“Milan are in a good moment and have strengthened the midfield with two players of great presence like Modric and Rabiot.

“They have a strong team, with important players, and must be considered contenders for the title. Modric and Rabiot are lifting pressure off others.”

Finally, he turned his focus to Rafael Leao, challenging him to embrace his potential:

“There’s no better place to make the final leap than Milan, especially with Allegri as coach. He only played half an hour but had three chances to score. He was out 40 days – now he must want to become the symbol of Milan.”