Rafael Alexandre da Conceição Leão (Portuguese pronunciation: [ʁɐfɐˈɛl ˈljɐ̃w]; born 10 June 1999) is a Portuguese professional footballer who plays as a left winger for Serie A giants AC Milan and the Portugal national team. Known for his blistering pace, flair, and creativity, Leão has cemented himself as one of the most exciting attackers in Europe.
Born in Almada, Portugal, to Angolan and São Toméan parents, Leão rose through the ranks of Sporting CP’s youth academy before making a senior breakthrough. Following a turbulent departure from Sporting in 2018 due to a violent attack on players by fans, he joined Lille in France. A year later, he signed with AC Milan for €35 million, a move that transformed his career. Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the most popular soccer players on the Portuguese team.
Since arriving in Italy, Leão has helped Milan reclaim their place at the top of Italian football, including winning the 2021–22 Serie A title and being named the Serie A Most Valuable Player that season.
Rafael Leão Salary and Net Worth (2025)
How Much Does Rafael Leão Earn?
As of 2025, Leão earns an estimated €7 million per year with AC Milan, after signing a new contract extension in 2023 that runs until 2028. This figure excludes performance bonuses, endorsements, and image rights.
What Is Rafael Leão’s Net Worth?
Leão’s net worth is estimated to be around €25–30 million. This figure is expected to rise steadily, considering his on-field success and off-field endorsements, including deals with major sportswear brands like New Balance. His fashion-forward personality has made him a marketable figure in global campaigns.
Rafael Leão Age and Height
How Old Is Rafael Leão?
Rafael Leão was born on 10 June 1999, making him 26 years old as of 2025.
What Is Rafael Leão’s Height?
Leão stands at an impressive 1.88 meters (6 feet 2 inches) tall, giving him a physical advantage on the wing. His height, combined with agility, makes him a nightmare for defenders.
Rafael Leão’s Wife or Girlfriend (2025)
Is Rafael Leão in a Relationship? As of 2025, Leão is reportedly single, with no official confirmation about a wife or long-term girlfriend. He is known to keep his personal life private, although he occasionally shares glimpses of his lifestyle and family on social media.
Despite rumors linking him to several high-profile names, Leão prefers to focus on football and his growing musical career, having even released tracks under the name Way 45, reflecting his off-pitch creativity.
Rafael Leão Latest Career News (2025)
What’s New in Rafael Leão’s Football Career?
In the 2024–25 season, Leão won the Supercoppa Italiana with AC Milan, adding another trophy to his growing collection. He continued to be one of the club’s most influential players, leading in both goals and assists.
Internationally, Leão was part of Portugal’s squad that won the UEFA Nations League in 2025, coming off the bench in key matches and contributing with vital dribbles and attacking momentum.
There are ongoing transfer rumors linking him to Premier League giants like Manchester United and Chelsea, though AC Milan remains committed to building their future around him.
Leao’s football career, net worth, age, height, wife, family, and biography
Here is a detailed and well-structured biography table for Rafael Leão with updated and real-time data (as of 2025):
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Rafael Alexandre da Conceição Leão |
| Nickname | “Rafa”, “Way 45” (stage name as a rapper) |
| Age | 26 years old |
| Birth Date | 10 June 1999 |
| Birth Place | Almada, Portugal |
| Nationality | Portuguese |
| Height | 1.88 m (6 feet 2 inches) |
| Weight | Approx. 81 kg (178 lbs) |
| College / Education | Not publicly documented (focused on football from youth) |
| Youth Clubs | Amora, Foot 21, Sporting CP |
| Turned Professional | 2017 (Sporting CP B and then First Team in 2018) |
| Current Club | AC Milan (Serie A) |
| Position | Left Winger / Forward |
| Jersey Number | 10 (AC Milan) |
| Preferred Foot | Right foot |
| Professional Wins | Serie A (2021–22), Supercoppa Italiana (2024–25), UEFA Nations League (2025) |
| Highest Ranking | Named Serie A MVP (2021–22); Top 3 Wingers in Serie A |
| International Debut | 2021 for Portugal senior national team |
| International Titles | UEFA U-17 Euro (2016), UEFA Nations League (2025) |
| Father’s Name | António Leão |
| Mother’s Name | Ana Conceição |
| Wife / Girlfriend | Currently Single (as of 2025) |
| Children | None publicly known |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Languages Spoken | Portuguese, French, Italian, and some English |
| Hobbies | Music (Rapper under name Way 45), Fashion, Fitness |
| Music Alias | Way 45 (active in music industry) |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated €25–30 million |
| Annual Salary (2025) | €7 million per year (AC Milan contract until 2028) |
| Wiki Page | Rafael Leão – Wikipedia |
| Instagram Handle | @iamrafaeleao93 |
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Rafael Leão’s Achievements
What Has Rafael Leão Achieved So Far?
Here are some of Rafael Leão’s most notable achievements:
Serie A Winner: 2021–22 with AC Milan
Serie A Most Valuable Player: 2021–22
Supercoppa Italiana Winner: 2024–25
UEFA Nations League Winner: 2025 with Portugal
UEFA Euro Participant: 2024
FIFA World Cup Participant: 2022
European U-17 Champion: 2016 with Portugal U17
Over 200 appearances for AC Milan with more than 60 goals and 40 assists
Leão is also known for his versatility, having played as a striker, winger, and second forward.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Leão
What position does Rafael Leão play?
He primarily plays as a left winger, but he can also operate as a forward or second striker.
What is Rafael Leão’s jersey number?
Leão wears the number 10 jersey for AC Milan.
Is Rafael Leão a rapper?
Yes, he is also known by the stage name Way 45 and has released music on platforms like YouTube and Spotify.
Where is Rafael Leão from?
He was born in Almada, Portugal, and is of Angolan and São Toméan descent.
Which clubs has Rafael Leão played for?
He has played for Sporting CP, Lille OSC, and AC Milan.
Conclusion
Rafael Leão is more than just a footballer—he’s a dynamic, multi-talented individual who’s redefining what it means to be a modern football star. From his explosive performances on the pitch to his growing cultural influence off it, Leão represents the future of the sport. As he continues to rise, fans can expect many more thrilling moments from this Portuguese sensation.
