The one time Rafael Leao did get into full stride it was terrifying. His 6ft 2in frame shouldn't be able to move at such speed or with the deftness to slide a football between his feet. The total silencing hush that came over Stamford Bridge when he got the ball was evidence of the threat he poses.
Rarely is such a player seen for the first time with such anticipation. Leao's game has elevated to a new plane of performance, his showdown at SW6 was meant to be the proof that it wasn't just a run of form or playing in Serie A. Albeit his performance was quiet, that one moment, right before half-time, where he darted into a gap between Reece James and Trevoh Chalobah that didn't exist, showed what all the fuss was about.
The 23-year-old is perhaps only equivalent of Allan Saint-Maximin from the Premier League. His rogue dribbling, rapid touches and sensory movements are too quick to perceive. Leao has an end to his skill though in a supply that the Frenchman doesn't, and that's what has given him a £127m release clause.
