User:Aaronl1997/sandbox
Aaron Leone
[edit] | |||
| Personal information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Full name | Aaron Anthony Peter Leone | ||
| Date of birth | 1 March 2000 (age 40) | ||
| Place of birth | Sydney, Australia | ||
| Height | 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in) | ||
| Playing position | Left Wing | ||
| Youth career | |||
| 2006-2011 | Five Dock FC | ||
| 2012-2013 | Holy Cross College | ||
| 2014-2017 | Gladesville-Ryde Magic | ||
| Senior career* | |||
| Years | Team | Apps | (Gls) |
| 2017-2020 | Sydney FC | 81 | (21) |
| 2020-2025 | AC Milan | 177 | (58) |
| 2025-2035 | Manchester United | 368 | (339) |
| 2035-2036 | LAFC | 59 | (49) |
| 2037-2040 | Sydney FC | 100 | (116) |
| National team | |||
| 2020–2021 | Italy U21 | 15 | (3) |
| 2020–2034 | Italy | 167 | (147) |
| Honours[show] | |||
| * Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only | |||
Aaron Anthony Peter Leone (born 1 March 2000) is an Italian-Australian retired professional footballer who played predominantly as a winger for Sydney FC, AC Milan, Manchester United, LAFC and the Italian national team. Largely considered as the greatest player of all time, Leone has won ten Ballon d’Or awards which were won consecutively between 2025 and 2034. He is the most decorated footballer of all time having won 103 trophies in his career, including nineteen league titles, ten UEFA Champions League titles, three FIFA World Cups and three UEFA European Championships. Both a prolific goalscorer and a creative playmaker, Leone holds the record for the most official goals scored for Manchester United, Sydney FC and Italy, and the most goals scored in the English Premier League, Hyundai A-League, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, FIFA World Cup, and FIFA Confederations Cup. He also has the most assists made for Manchester United, Sydney FC and Italy, and the most assists in the English Premier League, Hyundai A-League, UEFA Champions League, FIFA Club World Cup, FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship and FIFA Confederations Cup. He has scored more than 1100 senior goals and made more than 600 senior assists for club and country. No player in history has more career goals or assists than Leone.
Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Leone would be part of the famed Gladeville Galacticos golden generation. After signing for Sydney FC, Leone established himself as one of the countries hottest ever prospects, only to declare his intentions to play for Italy instead of Australia. He would then sign for AC Milan in the largest group transfer in the history of any sports. An integral part of AC Milan’s new young core, he would continue to progress and eventually win a treble at the club. Leone then sealed a move to his dream club Manchester United and would achieve unprecedented success, with a plethora of trophies and awards, smashing several records in the process. Leone is also known to perform in big games, and is a cult hero at Manchester United. Leone would then move abroad to play for LAFC in the MLS, before ending his playing career back at Sydney FC. Leone has also achieved remarkable success at an international level, winning every single title available while leading his country as their all time leading scorer and assist provider.
Early Life
[edit]Aaron Anthony Peter Leone was born on 1 June 2000 in Sydney, the youngest child of Joseph Leone, an entrepreneur, and Filomena Leone, a mathematics teacher and advisor. Despite being born in Australia, he is of Italian descent - the son of immigrants from Catania in Italy on his fathers side, and the grandson of immigrants from Chieti in Italy on his mothers side. This meant Leone was eligible for both Australian and Italian national teams. Leone developed his passion for the game as a child playing with his older brother, Alexander, who was Aaron’s teammate at Sydney FC, AC Milan, Manchester United, LAFC and Italy.
At the age of six, Leone started playing for his local club, Five Dock Football Club, primarily as a right midfielder, right back, and goalkeeper. He then began to play futsal, which Leone has credited with being an integral part of his technical development to go with his natural athleticism, improving his ability to play further up the pitch in positions like attacking midfielder and striker. It was while he was playing futsal with 19 other friends that he was noticed by a scout at the age of fourteen. Days later, all 20 players were signed by amateur club Gladesville-Ryde Magic - which their consequent success earned them the title of the ‘Gladesville Galacticos. In his three years at the club, Leone would win the National Premier League in all three seasons, scoring 30 goals and making 22 assists in his 70 appearances at the club, and was named player of the season in his final year at the club. The 20 youngsters of the ‘Gladesville Galacticos’ is unanimously considered Australia’s best ever crop of young players, and widely regarded the best golden generation of all time.
Club Career
[edit]Sydney FC
[edit]2017-2020: Making a name in Sydney
Leone arrived to Sydney FC with 8 other members of the ‘Gladesville Galacticos’ (the other 11 signed for other A-League clubs) ahead of the 2017-18 season to much fanfare. He was named the player of the season in the previous season, and many considered him to have the most potential of the notorious generation. Leone spoke of his delight signing for Sydney FC, as he was a season ticket holder for many years and was very passionate about the club.
Leone made his Sydney FC debut on the 26th of July 2017, scoring in a 2-0 win over Whittlesea Rangers in the FFA Cup. His first A-League goal however, would not be scored until the 1st of December, with his brace leading Sydney FC to a 3-1 win over Adelaide United. Leone’s debut season would end in disappointment, finishing in 2nd place and losing in the semi finals to their bitter rivals, the Wanderers 1-0, as well as being knocked out in the FFA Cup semi final on penalties to the Wanderers earlier in the season. Weeks later, they would also be knocked out of the Asian Champions League round of 16 after a 5-4 loss on aggregate to Beijing Guoan. Leone finished the season with 10 goals and 9 assists in a good season personally.
The 2018/19 season was no better for Sydney FC, knocked out in the first round of the FFA Cup 2-1 in extra time yet again to their rival Sydney team, the Western Sydney Wanderers. Sydney FC would also fail to qualify for the Asian Champions League, after beating Vietnamese outfit Da Nang 2-0 in the preliminary round, they would then lose 3-2 in the playoff to Chinese side, Huaxia Xinfu. In the league, Sydney FC finished 3rd, and Leone scored as they beat the Wanderers comprehensively 3-0 in the elimination final, only to lose in the semi finals yet again, this time to Wellington Phoenix on penalties after a 0-0 draw. Leone finished the season with 8 goals and 3 assists, as his production declined in a difficult second season.
Ahead of the 2019/20 season, there was much more pessimism around Sydney FC, as despite being the pre-season favourites each time, they constantly failed to deliver despite possessing majority of the best players from the Gladesville Galacticos. Public opinion of Leone being the leading player of the Gladesville Galacticos also swayed, as stagnant performances were put in contrast from several other players progressing well, with some winning titles, being named in the team of the season, and winning player and young player of the year awards. However, it was in his final season at the club where Leone played his best football. In perhaps his personal highlight of the season, Leone would score an 88th minute winner after his brother Alexander scored an 85th minute equaliser to complete a late turnaround to defeat Adelaide United. Sydney FC went on to finish Premiers, ultimately defeating Perth Glory 2-0 in the grand final. Sydney FC would also beat Guangzhou 5-3 on aggregate in the Asian Champions League round of 16, successfully overturning a 2-1 loss at home in the first leg. Leone scored the goal that put Sydney FC ahead on aggregate in the second leg, in what would be his last goal for the club. However, Leone would leave the club at the end of the season and subsequently did not play in the quarter finals (which were lost 6-0). Nonetheless, Leone’s return of 12 goals and 7 assists earned him a place in the team of the season and the player of the year award.
AC Milan
[edit]2020-2021: il futuro è ora
In an unprecedented move, AC Milan manager Vincenzo Montella shocked the footballing world by signing all 20 members of the Gladesville Galacticos for a combined fee of £20,000,000, the biggest move in Australian football history. Montella said of the move that despite making progress in recent years, the move was designed to win AC Milan’s first title after 9 years without success, and to create a long term dynasty. This group transfer attracted intense media and fan attention, although many considered this to be a marketing gimmick rather than a genuine injection of youth prospects. The move did admittedly result in a large marketing campaign for AC Milan - captioned ‘il futuro è ora’ (the future is now). Despite some media criticism, the fanfare of the move was largely positive, as the Gladesville Galacticos were viewed as a classic underdog story; a group of kids taking on the cut-throat world of professional football.
Of the 20 Gladesville Galacticos, only 6 remained at AC Milan for the entire season (with majority being loaned out). Alongside Leone, it was only Harley Boskovic (who alongside Aaron were considered the best two players in the group) and Emily Xarhoulakos who received regular game time with the first team. With the other three players not making major contributions: Anil Joshi made 3 appearances, Lee Chalon made 6 appearances, and Sofia Tsalikidis made 0 appearances.
Ahead of his debut, Leone spoke of his admiration for the club when he was young, and his desire to return the club to a “European powerhouse”. Leone made his debut in the Italian Super Cup, losing on penalties as AC Milan finished the match with 8 men. In his first Champions League campaign, Milan were drawn with Leone’s “dream club” Manchester United, who they would face in the first group game. It was in this match that Leone would score his first goal for the club, an 89th minute goal in front of over 80,000 people at the San Siro to give Milan the lead, only for Romelu Lukaku to equalise in the 92nd minute. Leone would score some important goals for the club, including late equalisers against Empoli and Sparta Prague, and a brace against Entella. Despite playing well in the first half of the season, it would be Leone’s friend and another member of the Gladesville Galacticos, Patrick Zarour, who would take the European Golden Boy award, who was loaned from AC Milan to Werder Bremen. Leone spent majority of the season competing for a spot with Giacomo Bonaventura on the left wing, and finished the season with 12 goals in 44 appearances, which was seen as a solid transition into European Football. However, Milan would fare worse than the previous season, remaining trophyless and 12 points worse off the previous season as they finished 3rd.
2021-2023: Continued progression and first trophy at Milan
The following season, Leone would establish himself as the starting left winger at AC Milan as he continued to improve. However, yet again AC Milan would finish the season trophyless after several heartbreaks. In the Italian Cup semi final, AC Milan faced city rivals Inter Milan, only to be dismantled in the first leg 5-1. A 2-0 away win was not enough to overturn the deficit in the second leg. Two weeks later, AC Milan lost the first leg in the Champions League round of 16 against eventual champions Liverpool 3-1, with Leone grabbing a vital away goal. In the second leg, AC Milan were up 2-0 and set to go through on away goals, only for Mohamed Salah to break Milan hearts in the 89th minute.
AC Milan were still leading the Serie A with four games to go, two points ahead of 2nd placed Inter Milan, and four points ahead of 3rd placed Juventus. AC Milan played away to Inter Milan, looking to avenge their Italian Cup exit, however AC Milan would suffer again, losing 4-1 in a pivotal title game. Juventus would win their game, meaning AC Milan were now one point off 1st, and one point ahead of 2nd. Inter Milan and Juventus played out a draw the next round, but AC Milan were unable to capitalise with a shock 0-0 draw at home to Pescara. All three title contending teams would win their next game late on (Juventus in the 62nd minute, AC Milan in the 89th minute, and Inter Milan in the 94th minute), meaning the gap would remain the same heading into the final day. On the final day, AC Milan were ahead in the second half at home to Atalanta, while Inter Milan were drawing away at Spal, meaning AC Milan would win the title as it stood. However, Mauro Icardi scored a 70th minute winner for Inter Milan, while Fabricio Bustos equalised in the 92nd minute for Atalanta, dropping AC Milan down to 3rd after Juventus’ comprehensive victory, capping off another disappointing season for the club. Nonetheless, Leone had a strong season, contributing 11 goals and 9 assists.
In the 2022-23 season, a young AC Milan side would continue to gain experience and improve despite finishing 3rd and not competing for the title. It was not until Leone’s third season that he would win his first trophy, as he scored the only goal in a 1-0 over Juventus in the Italian Cup final. Leone was pivotal in securing his first trophy at Milan, with 3 goals and 4 assists. AC Milan would also have a strong run into the Europa League final, only to lose on penalties to Chelsea after a 0-0 draw. Leone continued his progression, increasing production to 13 goals and 16 assists.
2023-2025: Treble winning season and emergence as one of the world’s best
AC Milan’s young core continued their rapid progression with the 2023-24 season involving 7 members of the Gladesville Galacticos. This season, everything would click for the squad as they won the treble and re-emerged themselves as a European force and the Galacticos experiment turned from gimmick to success. Leone was the star player of the treble winning Milan side, and especially hit a purple patch of form towards the back end of the season, with a series of clutch performances. Such performances included scoring in the Champions League round of 16 against PSG as Milan went through on away goals, a brace against Fiorentina in the Italian Cup semi final, and a brace against Pescara in a vital Serie A fixture. However, it was against Inter Milan in two consecutive matches that Leone truly announced himself on the world stage. First, in the Italian Cup final Leone scored a brace and an assist in a mesmerising display, with AC Milan running out 4-2 winners. Then, just four days later AC Milan would play away to Inter Milan in a crucial Serie A clash, a fixture that destroyed their title hopes just two years earlier. However, instead of losing 4-1, they would win 4-1, with Leone scoring and assisting yet again to avenge their rivals. AC Milan would then go on to clinch the Serie A and UEFA Champions League.
Although it was these two games in which many started to regard Leone as the best player in the world, as his performances in the big moments exploded Leone into the limelight. He even suggested himself that it was this period where he announced himself to the world, stating that despite always believing he had the ability, this period was where he truly believed he played to his potential, and that in this kind of form he was the best in the world. Leone finished the season with 19 goals and 23 assists to go with his treble, plus the Italian super cup. The individual accolades also began to pour in for Leone - Serie A Team of the Season, Best Midfielder, Most Assists, and Player of the Year.
Expectations were high for AC Milan the following season, they were no longer the underdog anymore. Due to Leone’s fine performances the previous season, he was the subject of intense transfer speculation. However, Leone would reject offers from Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester City in order to stay at the club for another season. AC Milan’s season got off to the perfect start, with winning the European Super Cup and Italian Super Cup, and Leone scoring in both. He continued his form from the previous season into the new season, and AC Milan would go onto win the FIFA Club World Cup with Leone named as the best player behind his brace in the final, which they beat Club América from Mexico 2-0. Subsequently, there was a strong campaign for Leone to win the 2024 Ballon d’Or as he had won every single club trophy possible, to go with his European Football Championship in the summer. However, in a controversial decision, despite making the World Team of the Year, Leone did not make the Ballon d’Or podium, missing out to Kylian Mbappe, Anthony Martial and Dick Vinken. Many believed Mbappe should not have won the award, as he only won the Ligue 1, compared to Leone who won everything available. Leone himself even hinted that there may have been a French bias, and would later admit that the snub really affected him at the time.
Not to be disparaged however, Leone continued his fine form into the new year as AC Milan went 15 games unbeaten (winning 13). Although they would ultimately not retain their European crown, with Atletico Madrid’s Jose Francisco Dacosta’s 89th and 91st minute brace in the second leg sending the tie to extra time and penalties, where Milan were defeated. Leone’s last league goals for AC Milan would come in the form of a brace away to Bologna - where a 2-1 win clinched their second successive Serie A title. His last goal for the club was just three days later in the Italian Cup final, where he scored the sole goal to beat Roma for their third successive Italian cup victory. Finishing the season with 29 goals and 20 assists, Leone would also win the Serie A Player of the Year, Best Midfielder, Team of the Season, as well as being named in the UEFA Champions League Dream Team and the Best Player in Europe award.
Manchester United
[edit]2025-2026: Move to Manchester United and debut season in England
Like the previous season, Leone was once again linked to several top European clubs. He would eventually sign with Manchester United for £64,000,000, a perceived bargain for a player largely considered the best in the world at the time, still only 25 years old. Leone emphasised that Manchester United was the only club he would have left Milan for, as it was his lifelong dream to play for the club. He expressed gratitude for Milan allowing him to leave on the cheap, presumably as an act of goodwill to pursue his dream move, and for his 5 years of service at the club, while showing his loyalty by rejecting several contracts from other clubs in the past.
The transfer was unanimously lauded by Manchester United fans, especially after his first interview at the club, where he left no one in doubt about his affinity and passion for the club. Pundits also saw this as a fantastic piece of transfer business, however some expressed concern over his ability to adapt to the English game, especially considering this was the first time in his career he would play without any other members in the Gladesville Galacticos. These concerns were unwarranted, as after winning the Community Shield, Leone scored 5 and assisted 4 in his first 3 Premier League games, in an explosive start to the season where he would also score a brace in his first Champions League game for the club, a 2-1 win over Olympiakos. Leone’s first career hattrick would come shortly after, in a 4-1 over Genk. He would then score two more hattricks that season, a 5-2 win over Burnley in the League Cup quarter final, and a 3-2 win over Wolves in the FA Cup 6th round. This would also be the season Leone won his first Ballon d’Or, as he was expected to do so.
As the season drew to a close, Manchester United were in the hunt for a treble, with Leone being the ‘go-to’ player. He would come up with several clutch performances. In a crucial Premier League fixture against Everton, Leone scored in the 85th and 87th minute to secure a 2-0 victory. A week later, he would score an 107th minute winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup semi final to progress through 1-0 at Wembley. A 1-0 Champions League loss away at the Allianz Arena would then dent United’s chances. However, A confidence boosting 7-0 thrashing of Chelsea spurred them to win 1-0 in the second leg after 90 minutes with Leone scoring the goal. Manchester United would then go on to score and win in extra time, sending them through to the final.
With three Premier League games to go, Manchester United trailed Manchester City by two points. Manchester United would also face Manchester City in both the FA Cup Final and UEFA Champions League final. Because of this bizarre sequence, the end of season received huge media attention and was dubbed as the ‘Manchester Treble Derbies’.
Manchester City would lose two of their last three games, while Manchester United won all three. Leone’s brace at home to Crystal Palace on the final day helped them clinch the English Premier League with a 4-0 victory. In the FA Cup final, Leone would equalise, and after falling behind a second time United would fight back again to take a 3-2 lead. Javier Garcia would break United hearts with a 94th minute equaliser, as City win on penalties. Neither side could now win the treble. Manchester United would avenge their FA Cup loss, winning 3-1 in the Champions League final despite falling behind earlier, as Leone assisted the title sealing goal in injury time. Overall it was a hugely successful first season for Leone, becoming the only player to ever score 50 in a season for the club, finishing with 51 goals and 25 assists, to go with a haul of honours - Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, Golden Boot and Most Assists, and Champions League Golden Boot, Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Best Player in Europe.
2026-2029: Undisputed best in the world and assuming the captaincy
Aaron Leone was named Manchester United captain in August 2026, just one year after signing for the club. Ahead of the 2026/27 season, Manchester United signed Dick Vinken to complete an irrerisistible attacking trio with Leone and Harry Kane. They would lose the Community Shield, but win the European Super Cup. Leone maintained his goalscoring form with 5 hattricks in the season, against: Young Boys (4 goals), West Brom, Aston Villa, Tottenham, and Sunderland. Leone would also score some late winners: a 97th minute winner against Arsenal, and a 91st minute winner against Burnley as Manchester United absolutely cruise through the league finishing with 105 points, and winning by 28 points, to go with a League Cup and Club World Cup victory, as Leone won his second Ballon d’Or award. With the treble looming large, United would once again falter in the FA Cup against Wolves in the FA Cup semi final. After Leone levelled, Ibourahima Balde scored in the 89th minute to hand Wolves a shock victory at Wembley. The next game, Leone scored his 100th Manchester United goal in a 3-1 win over Burnley. A 1-0 loss in the first leg of the Champions League semi final away to FC Porto could have incurred more disappointment for United, but Leone took less than two minutes to level on aggregate in the second leg, and United ended up running out 3-1 winners on aggregate. This would then set up an emotional Champions League final against his former side, AC Milan, where Manchester United would retain their crown with a 2-0 victory, a victory Leone would describe as “bittersweet”. Leone would finish with another 50 goal season - 52 goals and 32 assists as he was named Club World Cup Best Player, Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, Golden Boot, and Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Best Player in Europe.
As Harry Kane was beginning to age, Manchester United signed Aaron’s brother Alexander to take his place in the lineup for the 2027/28 season, as Jose Mourinho continued to build what looked to be an increasingly unstoppable lineup. United would start their season with Community Shield and European Super Cup victories. Despite many claiming Alexander’s arrival would mean Aaron would have to share the goals around, the opposite occured, as Aaron would score two hattricks and break the English Premier League record for most goals in a season with 46 as part of a potent front three. Manchester United won the Club World Cup and Leone won his third consecutive Ballon d’Or. Despite their continued success, United would once again crash out of the FA Cup, 1-0 away to West Ham. They would however avenge this loss a week later, winning the League Cup final 3-0 against West Ham, and beating them again days later by the same scoreline in the league, Leone scored a brace in both games with the latter being on his 28th birthday. Leone’s best goalscoring performance was yet to come - he would score a record breaking six goals in a 9-1 demolition of Fulham on April Fools Day, aptly captioned “The Joke”. Leone scored his 100th Premier League goal in a 2-1 win over Leicester.
Manchester United would once again cruise to the league title but were made to work for their Champions League retention. After losing 2-1 away to PSG in the first leg, United led the second leg 2-1, only for Leander Dendoncker to break United hearts with an 81st minute goal, with away goals meaning United needed to score twice to progress. They did exactly that, Leone pulled one back in the 91st minute to provide a glimmer of hope, before Yohan Viaud scored the winner in the 94th minute, sending the Old Trafford faithful into raptures with one of the greatest ever Champions League comebacks. They would then go on to win the final 2-0, with Leone scoring the first as United won their third consecutive Champions League title. Leone finished with 60 goals and 19 assists, and was awarded with: Club World Cup best player, Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, Golden Boot, Best Goal, Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Best Player in Europe and European Golden Shoe.
Manchester United started the 2028-29 season with a 3-1 Community Shield win over rivals Liverpool, and Leone scoring a brace. Despite being down to 10 men, Leone would also put United ahead in the European Super Cup against RB Leipzig, only for Eymen Kuhnert’s 78th and 92nd minute strikes to turn the tie. The rest of the domestic season would replicate years past, as United would once again win the Club World Cup, cruise to another league title, and Leone would win his 4th consecutive Ballon d’Or. They would however lose on penalties to Arsenal in the League Cup Final after a 0-0 draw. Once again, United would not progress in the FA Cup, as an Oumar Diarra brace sunk them 2-0 at home to Manchester City. They would however, show their European acumen once again, remaining undefeated throughout the Champions League campaign and winning 2-0 over PSG in the final. Leone finished the season with 40 goals and 32 assists, and won: Club World Cup best player, Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, and Most Assists, Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Most Assists, and Best Player in Europe.
2029-2030: FA Cup Glory at last, and Manchester United’s record goal scorer
Despite an inconceivable amount of success at the club, Leone spoke about his irritation of failing to win the FA Cup in his four years at the club, and how he will not be satisfied until winning the cup as it is the only trophy he is yet to win. Leone vowed to change this. Manchester United would continue their success in other competitions, victories in both the Community Shield and European Super Cup with Leone scoring in both. They would then go on to win 14 games in a row to start the Premier League season, and won the league with the most ever goals scored (110) despite Manchester City and Arsenal both having fantastic domestic seasons. Once again, United win the Club World Cup, and Leone won his 5th consecutive Ballon d’Or. Leone would score one hattrick that season, in a 4-0 win over Watford. His most iconic goal in the season was against fierce rivals Leeds away at Elland Road, where he scored his 254th goal for Manchester United to take over Wayne Rooney as the clubs all time leading scorer, forever etching his name in the clubs history. Leone would once again face former club AC Milan in the Champions League round of 16, and after winning the first leg 2-0, were stunned in the second leg, losing 4-0 after extra time, quashing United’s hopes of winning the Champions League a record-tying five seasons in a row. However, United would put on a strong run led by Leone, defeating Leeds, Liverpool and Chelsea on route to the final, where he would score in a 3-1 win over Arsenal in the final. Leone delivered on his vow to win the FA Cup, and was in impervious form, with 8 goals and 4 assists in 6 FA Cup matches. He finished the season with 60 goals and 38 assists, and won: Club World Cup best player, Premier League Footballer of the Year and Team of the Season, and Best Player in Europe.
2030-2031: A second treble and the best ever club side
The following season, Michael De Lucchi, another member of the Gladesville Galacticos would sign for Manchester United. Instead of playing in midfield, De Lucchi played on the left, which meant Leone would move to the right wing. What ensued during the season has resulted in the 2030-31 Manchester United side being widely regarded as the best ever club side by pundits, media, and fans alike; they went the entire season undefeated in all competitions. Leone would score in a Community Shield victory, and won his 6th consecutive Ballon D’Or. He scored one hattrick during the season, in a 7-0 victory over Zenit. Manchester United for the most part cruised throughout all competitions, however they did only win the League Cup final on penalties against Chelsea after a 2-2 draw, and beat Manchester City in extra time to win 2-1 in the FA Cup semi final. United finished the season with the highest ever point tally (106), and Leone scored as they beat Crystal Palace 3-2 in the FA Cup final. The Champions League final would be played against Manchester City, who would look to avenge being runners up in the league and losing in the FA Cup. However, Leone would score twice as United ran out comfortable 3-0 winners at Wembley, proving their superiority in world football. Leone finished the season with 50 goals and 22 assists, and was named Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, Golden Boot, and Most Assists, and Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, Golden Boot, and Best Player in Europe.
2031-2033: Back to back to back trebles
Manchester United’s dominance would continue into the 2031-32 season with victories in the Community Shield and the UEFA Super Cup. The goals would continue to come for Leone, as United continued to rack up many wins. Another Club World Cup victory would follow, with a 10-0 win in the final over the Indian host team, East Bengal. Leone would then win his 7th consecutive Ballon D’Or, and just over a week later, score his first hattrick of the season in a 4-1 win over Tottenham. Manchester United would also look to retain the League Cup, and were drawn with their city rivals in the semi finals. After a 3-1 win at the Etihad, United would concede two late goals at Old Trafford sending the tie to extra time. Leone would however score United’s second goal in extra time to secure a 5-3 aggregate victory, before scoring once again in the final, a 2-0 win over Arsenal. Leone would also rack up a four-goal haul against Burnley in a 5-0 win, with three goals coming from the spot. United were then set up for another treble, facing Arsenal in the FA Cup semi final, and Manchester City in the Champions League semi final. Once again, Leone would score in extra time against Arsenal, scoring the winner in the 98th minute. After a 1-0 win at Old Trafford, Leone scored an early away goal in the second leg, and after a yo-yo game, including goals in the 89th and 90th minute, he scored the dagger of the tie in 91st minute, securing a 5-3 aggregate victory in an “instant Champions League classic”. Manchester United’s treble was put into danger in the FA Cup, down 1-0 at half time to Newcastle, but Leone would score a brace to flip the tie and put United ahead, ultimately winning the cup 3-1. A week later, Manchester United would become the first team in European history to win a back to back ‘Continental Treble’, defeating FC Porto 2-0 in the Champions League final. Leone’s accolades would continue with: Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, and Golden Boot; Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Most Assists; and Best Player in Europe and the European Golden Shoe, amassing a total of 54 goals and 34 assists.
In the opening game of the 2032-33 season, Manchester United’s city rivals would lay down a marker for the upcoming season with a result that would send shock-waves throughout the footballing community, a resounding 7-0 win for City in the Community Shield. As Manchester United’s core players were beginning to age, many tipped City to finally end United’s dominance. After winning the European Super Cup, United would only gather one point in their opening two league games. Leone would receive his first and only red card in his career with a reckless challenge from behind against Arsenal in the first half, where United would go down 1-0 at Old Trafford. Leone was subsequently suspended and apologised, stating he “failed to meet the standards of the club, myself and the supporters as a Manchester United player, and especially as captain.” However, upon his return Leone would not skip a beat and was back amongst the goals, which would include a four-goal haul away to Slovakian side Spartak Trnava, an extra time winner in the League Cup against Arsenal, and a brace against Manchester City as they avenged their Community Shield loss with a 5-1 win. Manchester United would once again win the Club World Cup, and Leone would secure his 8th consecutive Ballon D’Or. Leone would grab another hattrick in a 4-0 win over Stoke, and a brace as United ran out 5-2 winners in the League Cup final against Everton. Leone and Manchester United continued their fine form throughout the season, and were in a position to win their third consecutive treble, facing Arsenal in both the FA Cup and Champions League finals. For the third consecutive time, a cup tie against Arsenal would go to extra time, and once again, Leone would score in extra time to seal a 4-2 victory and win the FA Cup. United would pile on the misery for Arsenal, winning the Champions League in a thrilling 4-3 encounter a week later. At the end of the season, Leone was once again: Premier League Footballer of the Year, Team of the Season, and Golden Boot; Champions League Best Midfielder, Dream Team, and Golden Boot; and Best Player in Europe, and the European Golden Shoe. He would finish the season with 62 goals and 24 assists.
2033-2035: Finals years at Manchester United - goals galore
Ahead of the 2033-34 season, Aaron’s brother Alexander would leave to join MLS side Orlando City, once again making Aaron the only Leone at Manchester United. Once agains, concerns were expressed about an ageing Manchester United team, and Aaron himself as he was now 33 years old without the difficult job of leading a team in transition. Once again, these concerns would be quashed as Leone would hit his career best goalscoring form. The season would kick off with United winning both the Community Shield and European Super Cup and Leone scoring a brace in both games. Leone began the club season on an 20-game scoring streak, scoring 28 goals in that period. Even more impressive when international matches are included, totalling 50 goals in a historic consecutive scoring run of 33 games; the best goal scoring streak in history. Leone had began the club season with 62 goals in the calendar year of 2033, and public interest began to peak as Leone looked to challenge Lionel Messi’s record of 91 goals in 2012, a record that was considered unbeatable at the time. With his 28 goal start to the season, Leone sat on 90 goals in 2033, with a maximum of 11 games to play. However, Manchester United would falter with consecutive losses to AS Monaco and Chelsea, and Leone would fail to score in a 3-0 win over Liverpool. In the following game, Manchester United had to avoid defeat away to Shakhtar to progress through in the Champions League, and Leone would score a brace to break Messi’s long standing record in a 5-0 victory. After Leone’s second goal, he would receive a standing ovation from the Ukrainian crowd. Now on 92 goals, attention turned towards reaching an unprecedented 100 goals in a calendar year with a maximum of 7 games remaining. Leone would receive a big boost in the winning Club World Cup run, where his four goals against Orlando Pirates would bring him to 97 goals. 2 goals in his next 2 games would put Leone to 99, and he would crack the 100 mark with a penalty on boxing day against Leicester to a jubilant Old Trafford. Leone would finish the year with 101 goals and the 9th Ballon D’Or in what was nothing more than a formality. The goals would continue to flow in the new year for Leone, securing hattricks against Oldham, West Ham, Aston Villa, Swansea and Watford, and four goals against Burnley on the domestic scene. Manchester United would secure another League Cup with a 4-1 victory over Liverpool, with Leone scoring twice in the final. In the Champions League, United would qualify through the first two knockout stages with ease; 12-1 against Boavista and 6-1 against Juventus, but would hit a roadblock after losing at Old Trafford to Barcelona 1-0 in the semi final. At the Camp Nou however, Leone would score the only goal to send the game to extra time, and would complete his hattrick with two further goals to complete a remarkable lone turnaround away from home. Manchester United would secure retention of the Premier League and face Atletico Madrid in the Champions League final. Leone would cap off a remarkable goalscoring season with two goals in the final, a comfortable 5-0 win in Germany. Leone at the conclusion of the season would sweep multiple awards. Golden Boots in the Premier League (50) and Champions League (20) where he broke he record for most goals in the competition in a single season. Additionally he would have the most assists, and be named in the Team of the Season for both competitions, and was named the Premier League Footballer of the Year, Champions League Best Midfielder, Best Player in Europe and the European Golden Shoe winner. In all competitions, Leone would end up with 91 goals and 38 assists.
There was much speculation during the World Cup as to whether Leone would leave Manchester United, as he had flirted with the prospect of an AC Milan reunion. He was also linked to clubs such as Barcelona, PSG, and Bayern Munich. At the conclusion of a successful World Cup campaign, Leone announced he would stay on at Manchester United for the season, but it would be his last, stating his desire to win a 10th Ballon D’Or. Leone would kick the season off with a brace to defeat Everton in the Community Shield, but would go down to Borussia Dortmund in the European Super Cup. United would also be knocked out of the League Cup by Crystal Palace to deny a 5th consecutive League Cup. Their Champions League campaign would also start poorly, losing their first two games to cap off a poor start to the season, losing 5 of their opening 11 games. After defeating LOSC Lille 5-0, they would lose 3-2 away to the French club, putting their Champions League hopes in serious jeopardy after only gathering 3 points in their first 4 games. Manchester United would then begin to click in to gear, with Leone scoring a hattrick against Everton, and winning their remaning Champions League games to qualify for the knockout stages. Leone would also score four goals and claim the Best Player award as Manchester United once again claimed the Club World Cup. Leone finished the year in scintillating form, scoring 10 goals in the final 4 games (finishing the year on 97 goals), including a four-goal haul against QPR and a hattrick against Aston Villa en route to his 10th consecutive Ballon d’Or, a milestone even he admitted was quite “unthinkable”. United continued their good form into the new year, with Leone racking up four-goals against Newcastle, and a hattrick against Wolverhampton. Once again, United would complete the treble, beginning with a comfortable 27-point gap in the Premier League. Leone scored in a 3-2 win in the FA Cup final against Nottingham Forest, and a brace in the Champions League final, a 3-1 victory against long-standing rivals Manchester City, in what would be his final game at the club. Summing up his final game, Leone described how it was “appropriate to go out with another Champions League, against your biggest rivals, and scoring”. Leone would again was named the Premier League Footballer of the Year, Golden Boot and Most Asssists, Champions League Best Midfielder (and named in the Dream Team for both competitions), Best Player in Europe and the European Golden Shoe winner. He finished the season with 63 goals and 32 assists.
LAFC
[edit]2035-2036: Aaron brings the action in Hollywood
At the end of the season, Leone would link up once again with his brother Alexander, as well as long-time friend and teammate Nicholas Collinson to MLS side LAFC halfway through the season, with the intent of creating a MLS dynasty. Unsurprisngly, this would draw huge fanfare and media attention, catapulting the MLS to a level of public interest not seen before. In contrast to his last Manchester United game in front of 65,000 fans, just under 2,000 would be in attendance for his debut, as LAFC travelled to minnows Orange Country in the US Cup. LAFC would win 6-0, with Leone scoring four goals. Leone would score consecutively in his first 11 games, as LAFC would go the remainder of the regular season undefeated. This included a 2-0 win in the US Cup final against D.C. United, with Aaron and then Alexander both scoring in stoppage time to secure just the second piece of silverware in the clubs history. LAFC would win 4-1 in the Western Conference semi final, but would suffer their first loss in the conference final, 2-1 away to Portland Timbers. However, LAFC would win the second leg 3-1, with Leone scoring an 85th minute penalty to win the tie. In the MLS Cup there would be no such problems, a resounding 8-0 win over New England with Leone scoring a hattrick, to secure the first MLS Cup in the club’s history. Despite playing just 24 games, Leone finished the season with 30 goals and 20 assists, and was named as the MLS Newcomer of the year, had the most assists in the MLS, and was named in the MLS Best XI. Also, Aaron would be named in the World Team of the Year alongside Alexander, becoming the first players outside of Europe to make the team. However, Aaron would finally not win the Ballon d’Or after 10 consecutive wins.
Due to the previous season success, LAFC would qualify for the North American Champions League in the 2036 season, which would kick off in the MLS preseason. LAFC kicked off their campaign with a 5-2 aggregate victory over Costa Rican side Saprissa. However, two second half goals conceded in the home leg of the quarter final against Chivas resigned them to a 2-1 defeat. LAFC would overcome the deficit in the second leg, winning 2-0, with Leone scoring the 75th minute winner. From this stage, LAFC would go through the entire MLS regular season undefeated (and only drawing 3 games) as they romped to a second consecutive MLS Supporters Shield. In the midst of this run, LAFC would defeat Chicago Fire 7-4 and New York Red Bulls 6-0 on aggregate to win the North American Champions League, with Leone scoring three goals in the final tie. They would also win the US Cup after a 4-1 win over Real Salt Lake from a Leone hattrick. In the playoffs, LAFC would defeat Seattle Sounders 8-1 on aggregate in the conference semi final, but would once again lose in the away leg of the conference final, 1-0 against Sporting Kansas City. LAFC went through to the MLS Cup 3-1 on aggregate after another second leg turnaround. LAFC would then defeat Orlando City in the MLS Cup, with Leone scoring two penalties in a comfortable win. Leone had the most goals and assists in the North American Champions League, was named in the Dream Team and as the Golden Ball winner. In the MLS, he also had the most assists, was named in the MLS Best XI and as the MLS MVP. Due to their Champions League success, LAFC would also participate in the Club World Cup. They defeated Zamalek 2-0 and River 3-0 en route to the final where they would meet European champions Atletico Madrid. LAFC would secure an unlikely victory as the underdogs courtesy of a sole first minute goal, becoming the first American team to win the competition. Leone finished the season with 43 goals and 32 assists, and was once again named in the World Team of the Year. The LAFC dynasty and ‘big three’ would disassemble at the conclusion of the season. Alexander Leone retired, Gianluca Colombo’s loan expired an he returned to Manchester United, and Aaron announced his desire to return to Australia.
Sydney FC
[edit]2037-40: The prodigal son returns
Leone would make good on his promise to return to Sydney FC. At the time, Sydney FC were in a difficult spot, having not won in their last 6 games. Leone’s transfer to Sydney FC was put in jeopardy as Sydney FC were under a transfer embargo at the time, but the move would eventually be complete. However, he would also assume the managerial role after Arthur Papas stepped down from his position, making Aaron a player-manager. Leone discussed how he had won every trophy at every club he had been at, but some silverware still “eluded” him at Sydney FC. He also stated he didn’t feel his first stint at the club was as successful as it should have been, wanting to right some wrongs, and the “idea of finishing where you started was appealing”. As for also taking up a mangerial role, Leone emphasised he was a “keen student of the game”, and after taking up leadership positions at previous clubs, this was a perfect opportunity. Leone’s first game back at Sydney FC would result in a 93rd minute winner against Western Sydney Wanderers, and his first hattricks in a 6-1 demolition of Melbourne Victory, then a 5-2 win over Central Coast Mariners. Sydney FC cruised to the Premiership. In the semi finals, Leone scored a brace against Newcastle Jets in a 6-0 win, before scoring four goals in the grand final, in a 7-0 win over Western Sydney Wanderers. In just 15 games at the club, Leone scored in every game, totalling 25 goals to go with 7 assists. Leone was named in the A-League Team of the Season, as the A-League Player of the Year, and won the Golden Boot.
Into the 2037-28 season, Leone would continue to aggressively recruit players. The honour of playing alongside, and under Aaron, proved to be a huge advantage in a salary-cap league, as many high profile players were interested in signing for the club for less wages. Sydney FC were developing a super team, and were hugely successful, going undefeated in the domestic season, only drawing 3 games. Sydney FC would romp to the FFA Cup, with Leone scoring in all 5 games, including hattricks against Brisbane City and Northcote City, and an 87th minute winner against Newcastle Jets. The A-League Premiership and Championship double would follow, as Sydney FC were dominant, defeating Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City 2-0 in the semi final and grand final. Leone would also score one hattrick in the regular season, in a 4-0 win over Melbourne City. The Asian Champions League would also return to Sydney, and was taken seriously by Aaron as it was one of the primary reasons for returning the club. Despite kicking off the campaign with a win, Sydney FC only attained 4 points from the opening 3 games. However, Leone would score two hattricks in a row, and one goal in the final group game, as three consecutive wins sent Sydney FC to the knockout stage, where they would face Chinese side Guangzhou. An upset looked to be on the cards, as Guangzhou were unlucky only to be leading 1-0 at half time in Sydney after a dominant performance. However, a clinical second half performance would ensure Sydney FC ran out 3-1 winners. In the away leg, Guangzhou would once again dominate, and after taking the lead Sydney FC were looking vulnerable as another goal would eliminate them on away goals. However, as Guangzhou pushed for the winner, Sydney FC struck on the counter to secure the victory in injury time. Leone finished the season with 48 goals and 19 assists. In the A-League, he had the most goals and assists, was named the Player of the Year, in the Team of the Season, and for the first time, Manager of the Year. Leone was also named in the World Team of the Year once again.
Ahead of the new season, Leone would continue to strengthen an already dominant side, including former Manchester United and LAFC teammate, Gianluca Colombo on loan. In the staff department, he also aimed to have as many Gladesville Galacticos as possible give back to the club, hiring Alexander Leone as Director of Football, David Buffin as a coach, and later on in the season, Michael De Lucchi as the Youths Assistant Manager. In the first game of the season, Leone would make history. Scoring an unprecedented 10 goals (including a hattrick within 6 minutes) away to Gosnells City in the FFA Cup in an 18-0 victory in front of a full-capacity 750 fans. Leone would also score his 1000th career goal in this match, being the first player to officially do so. He would also score a hattrick in the next FFA Cup game, a 9-0 win over Sydney Olympic, but would ultimately be knocked out to a 92nd minute goal in the semi final against Perth Glory. In the Champions League, Sydney FC would defeat Brisbane Roar 5-3 on aggregate in the quarter final, and 7-4 against Huaxia Xingfu in the semi final. A 2-1 loss away to Al-Ittihad was then followed up by a resounding 5-0 win in the second leg with Leone scoring a brace to secure the clubs first ever Asian Champions League, “a moment of great closure” described by Aaron. Leone scored the most goals, provided the most assists, and was named in the Asian Champions League Dream Team and as the MVP. Sydney FC would participate in the Club World Cup as a result, defeating America 4-0 in the quarter final behind a Leone brace, where they would then face Chelsea in the semi final. Leone put Sydney FC in front, but Chelsea would bounce back and take the lead in the 85th minute, only for Leone to once again equalise in the 88th minute. Sydney FC would ultimately upset the European Champions by winning on penalties, then defeating Team Wellington in the final 5-1, with Leone scoring a third consecutive brace. Leone was named the Club World Cup Best Player, and once again named in the World Team of the Year. Sydney FC would go the rest of the season with just 1 loss and 1 draw. Leone scored hattricks against Newcastle Jets and Brisbane Roar as Sydney FC attained another Premiership, then winning 2-0 against Wellington Phoenix and 9-1 against Brisbane Roar to win the Championship. Leone once again won the A-League Golden Boot, Player of the Year award, and was named in the Team of the Season, and as the Manager of the Year. Sydney FC also then defeated Huaxia Xingfu 9-1 in the Champions League round of 16. Leone finished the season with 61 goals and 27 assists.
Despite initially intending to retire at the end of the season, Leone announced he would play on for one final season, which would keep him playing till the age of 40. Once again, Sydney would continue to improve an already dominant side, as they went the entire season undefeated in all competitions. Sydney FC would retain the Champions League, defeating Melbourne City 7-1, Newcastle Jets 6-1, and Al-Ittihad 3-1 on aggregate. Once again, Leone had the most assists, and was named in the Dream Team and as the MVP. In the Club World Cup, Leone needed an extra time goal to defeat host nation ES Tunis 3-2, then defeating Newell’s Old Boys through a 90th minute winner, and once again, upsetting the European Champions, Barcelona, 2-0 in the final with Leone opening the scoring. Leone was named the Club World Cup Best Player, and at the years end, as a substitute of the World Team of the Year. This broke his 16 year streak of being named in the starting 11, but was his 17th straight year in the overall squad. In January, Leone would sign Gladesville Galactico, and former Sydney FC, AC Milan, and Italy teammate Julian Buffin. Julian was also set to retire at the end of the season, and after being out of favour in Barcelona, committed to a final 6-month stint with the Sky Blues. Sydney FC would cruise through the remainder of the season, some of Leone’s best performance included a four-goal haul against Cringila Lions, hattricks against Melbourne Victory, Adelaide United, and Persib, and a 90th minute winner against Western Sydney Wanderers. Sydney FC defeated Newcastle Jets 3-0 in the semi final, and Leone scored a hattrick in the grand final, a 6-1 win over Melbourne City. Leone won the A-League Golden Boot, Player of the Year award, and was named in the Team of the Season, and as the Manager of the Year. His final two games would come in the Champions League round of 16 against Huaxia Xingfu. Leone scored in the away leg, a 2-0 victory, and scored 2 goals and provided 1 assist in the home leg, his final game. Leone and Julian Buffin were both subbed off late into the game to a rousing and emotional reception from the home crowd. Leone finished his final season with 54 goals and 29 assists. Upon his retirement, Leone was quizzed on several subjects. He stated he was still unsure whether he would remain manager at Sydney FC, and will need to take time to think about it.
International Career:
[edit]2018-2020: The decision
[edit]Italy failed to qualify for their first world cup in 60 years, after failing to qualify for the 2018 edition. Several of the Gladesville Galacticos were eligible for both the Australian and Italian national teams. As many of these players excelled in the 2018-19 season, and especially the 2019-20 season, there was intense speculation over which nation they would choose to represent. Leone, alongside several others would constantly deflect questions around the subject when quizzed. It was decided their decision must be unanimous, and they ultimately chose to represent Italy over Australia in the 2019-20 season, citing ‘a desire to return Italy to a global powerhouse after their World Cup heartbreak’ as a major factor. This decision was met with heated criticism by the Australian footballing public, as it was seen as turning their back on their country of birth and growth. Leone, alongside the others were targeted with constant abuse by opposing fans in Australian domestic games.
2020-2022: International debut and U21 European Championship
[edit]Leone made his Italy debut on the 5th of September 2020 in a 3-1 win away to Wales in the European International League. His international call up was met with controversy, as some sections of Italian supporters were opposed to the idea of a foreign born player to play for the national team. Two months later he would score his first international goal inside the first minute away to Poland in the European International League, the sole goal in a 1-0 victory that prompted an emotional reaction. Italy lost 2-0 to France in the European International League final, the same scoreline to same team as the European Football Championship final just one year earlier.
Leone was not selected for the 2021 Confederations Cup squad (where Italy finished third), and instead was called up to the U21 European Championship Squad despite being a full international. The Italy U21’s would win the tournament, defeating Portugal U21’s 3-1 in the final, with Leone being named among the subs for the Dream Team.
2022 FIFA World Cup
[edit]In the World Cup qualification campaign, Leone scored one goal and three goals in the friendly matches leading up to the World Cup, which Leone would make the squad. With concerns over scheduling, the 2022 World Cup was relocated to Australia. Considering Leone had snubbed the Australian national team, he subsequently missed the opportunity to play a home World Cup, and once again was targeted with barages of abuse from the Australian fans. The World Cup was an unsuccessful one for Italy, after a 2-0 opening round victory over Denmark, Italy would then fail to find the net in their next two group games; 0-0 against both Mexico and Uruguay. Italy almost failed to qualify, but Donnarumma’s penalty save against Uruguay ensured a vital point to qualify for the knockout stage. Once again for the third year in a row, France would end Italy’s competition hopes with a 1-0 victory. Leone was criticised for his performances as part of a toothless Italian attack.
2023-2024: National team development and first international trophies
[edit]Leone would continue to get more game time for the national side, but was unable to perform as well as he would for club side AC Milan. However, he would win his first international trophy; the European International Trophy, with a 3-1 win over Portugal in the final.
Italy would host the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship, the perfect opportunity to restore national pride. Once again, Italy’s attack struggled, with a 0-0 draw against Czech Republic on the opening night. In the second match, Italy found themselves 2-0 down inside 10 minutes against Montenegro, and were on the brink of a shock exit at a home tournament. Leone would pull one back for Italy, and two more goals before half time gave them a 3-2 lead, and an eventual 5-3 victory. Italy resorted to their old ways with a 0-0 draw in the final group game against Ukraine, scraping through the group stage. Italy would defeat an unfancied Romania side in unconvincing fashion, 2-1 in the round of 16. In the quarter final against Ireland, Italy were reduced to 10 men before the half hour mark, and the game finished with yet another 0-0 draw. In extra time, Italy were reduced to 9 men, and instead of clinging onto penalties they somehow managed to score an 118th minute winner courtesy of Pietro Pellegri to go through to the semi finals. Against Germany, Italy would draw 1-1 and go to extra time again, with a 105th minute Patrick Cutrone goal sending Italy to the final. Italy played the Netherlands in the final at the San Siro, and poor discipline hurt them again, being reduced to 10 men on 50 minutes. The game finished 0-0 once again, for the fourth time in the tournament, and went to extra time for the third time in the row. But yet again, Italy would score in extra time and it was Leone’s 105th minute penalty that sealed Italy’s first European Football Championship in 56 years.
Italy’s tournament victory was considered to be very unconvincing, but the side were commended for their “dogged, gritty and resolute” character that helped them grind out results consistently without playing particularly well. Leone played fairly well, making the dream team substitutes, but more importantly scored the winning goal in the final. (Thoughts on Euro win)
2025-2026: Campioni del mondo
[edit]The European Championship victory seemed to boost the confidence of Leone individually and Italy collectively, as there was an up turn in performances. Leone scored 8 goals in 2025, while Italy won every single game during the year, and added a second consecutive European International League title.
There was a fresh optimism among Italian supporters leading up to the World Cup, as they were playing well and their young core continued to develop. Leone spoke leading up to the World Cup of wanting to right the wrongs of 2022, and fulfill his desire to return Italy to being World Champions. But once again, Italy’s World Cup began in unconvincing fashion, needing a 90th minute winner to beat Paraguay in the first game. In the second match however, a Leone brace helped Italy in an 8-1 rout over Jamaica, before coming back from 2 goals down to draw 2-2 with the Netherlands in an entertaining final group game. In the round of 16, Leone would score his first ever international hattrick in a 5-1 win over Poland. This was followed up with a resounding 5-2 victory over England in the quarter finals. Leone scored again in the semi finals against Spain, and after a 1-1 draw, Italy would score in the 116th and 120th minute of extra time to send them through to the final. Italy would face France in the final, the side that eliminated them from the past three competitions. However, Italy would avenge this and repeat their 2006 success, as they comfortably defeated France 3-0, Leone assisting one of the goals.
Italy were lauded for their resounding success, in contrast with an unconvincing European Championship win two years earlier. Leone was named the World Cup Golden Ball winner, making the dream team and finishing with the most assists. His performances drastically improved from recent tournaments, as was expected from the now Ballon d’Or holder. Leone spoke of his delight fulfilling his vow and validating his decision to play for Italy.
2027: All time leading scorer
[edit]Italy would win their third consecutive European International League. In the final, Russia led 1-0, only for Italy to be awarded a 95th minute penalty. Leone missed the penalty, but scored the rebound to send the tie to extra time, where they won in the 116th minute. Leone would hit his best scoring form for the national side in 2027, scoring 13 goals in a 5 game stretch in the European Championship qualifiers. This included a hattrick against Moldova, four goals against Northern Ireland, and four goals against Iceland. In the Northern Ireland game, Leone would also become Italy’s all time leading scorer, surpassing Andrea Belotti.
2028-2029: Back to back European titles and Confederations Cup
[edit]Italy were lookng to defend their European crown in 2028, and in the group stage would beat Ukraine 3-0, Bosnia & Herzegovina 5-1, and draw with Romania 1-1, with Leone scoring four goals in these games. A 4-1 victory over Czech Republic in the round of 16 followed, and Leone scored a brace in the quarter final to sink Norway 2-0. In the semi final, Italy faced the hosts Spain. Despite a strong support for the hosts and Spain scoring first, they were ultimately dismantled with Italy running out 5-1 victors. In the final, Italy played rivals France yet again. Italy were reduced to 10 men after just three minutes. In difficult circumstances, Italy showed their resilience yet again winning 3-1, as Leone scored the sealing goal in the 93rd minute. Italy were now gathering momentum and considered one of the great national teams. Leone was named the player of the tournament and was named in the dream team.
Leone continued his fine form after the tournament, scoring four against Norway and winning his fourth consecutive European International League.
However in the first Confederations Cup game, Italy were stunned 1-0 against Australia, but clicked back into gear as Leone scored in remarkable 7-0 victory over Brazil. The next game although would go down as one of the most unbelievable scorelines in football history, as Italy destroyed New Zealand 21-0, with Leone scoring nine goals. This was the record for the most goals (team and player) in a major international tournament. Italy would play hosts Spain yet again in the semi finals, and after a 1-1 draw, Italy won 3-1, with Leone scoring the third goal in extra time. Italy would meet Australia again in the final. This time however, Italy were comfortable 3-1 winners. Leone was named the Confederations Cup best player, Golden Boot winner, and made the most assists with 11 goals and 8 assists.
2030: Best national side in history
[edit]Italy would face the dauting task of also having to defend their global crown. This time Italy found themselves as tournament favourites as their new golden generation were hitting their prime. Leone scored a brace in the opening game, a 5-1 win over Uzbekistan, one goal in a 5-0 win over Cameroon, and a hattrick as Italy beat Germany 3-0. In the knockout stages, Leone scored a brace in a 3-1 win over Brazil. Italy then defeated Mexico 4-0 to qualify for the semi finals, where they would face Portugal. Italy and Portugal drew 1-1 after 90 minutes, but spent the entire second half with 10 men. Despite the red card, Italy scored three goals in extra time, with Leone scoring in the 95th and 98th minute to go through to the final.
Italy would play the hosts Spain for the third time in the row in the final. Juanjo’s goal for Spain had them up 1-0 at the break. In the second half, Leone produced one of the most iconic moments in World Cup history; receiving the ball in his own half, he dribbled in between two players and burst forward, surrounded by six players (this picture went viral), he somehow managed to play the ball through to his brother Alexander Leone, who equalised in the 65th minute. Leone would then deliver a perfect left footed cross to Julian Buffin who scored the World Cup winning goal in the 83rd minute. Leone was named man of the match in the final, and was awarded with the Golden Ball, named in the dream team, and made the most assists.
After this World Cup success, opinion shifted towards the Italian side being the best in history, as they held the World Cup (and defended it), the European Football Championship (and defended it), the Confederations Cup, and the European International League (won five times in a row).
2031-32: Sustained success
[edit]Once again, Italy would retain the European International League. After scraping through on penalties against the Netherlands in the semi final, they were pitted with England in the final, where Leone plied his trade. England went up 2-0 after 15 minutes, but Leone would score 3 goals in 5 minutes, before adding a fourth in the first half, to lead 4-2 at half time, eventually winning 5-3. Leone scored 6 goals in the European Championship qualifying stages, and scored a hattrick against Turkey in a friendly before the tournament. This hattrick would bring up Leone’s 100th international goal, becoming only the second player after Ali Daei to do so. In the 2032 European Championship, Italy would win all three group games, but Leone did not score. In the round of 16 against Russia, Vladimir Dmitriev gave Russia a late lead and Italy’s dominance of major tournaments was put in jeopardy, but an 83rd minute goal sent the game to extra time, where both Aaron and Alexander Leone scored to secure a 3-1 win. Once again, Italy fell behind in the quarter finals against Wales, needing a second half and extra time goal to turn things around. Leone scored twice as Italy defeated Greece 3-0 in the semi finals, and retained the European Championship with a 3-1 win over Portugal in front of a capacity Wembley. Leone has the most assists in the competition, and was named in the Dream Team and as the Best Player.
2033-34: Final silverware
[edit]Italy would kick off their World Cup qualification away to Israel, where a Leone brace helped them to a 4-1 win. His first goal was his 110th for Italy, which surpassed Ali Daei’s 109, to make Aaron the all time leading international scorer. The Israeli fans would give Leone a standing ovation following his landmark goal. In the International League, a Leone brace against Spain gave Italy a 2-0 win, to send them through to face the Netherlands in the final. In the final, Leone scored an 83rd minute goal to take the lead, only for the Dutch to equalise through a 95th minute penalty. However, in the extra period Leone would score another, and his teammates another two, to secure a 4-1 win. In the Confederations Cup, Leone scored a hattrick in a 3-0 win over South Korea, a brace in a 6-0 win over New Zealand, and one goal in a 2-1 loss against Brazil. In the semi final, Portugal took an early 2-0 lead, but Italy would hit back to send the game to extra time, where Leone would score once in a game that finished 4-2. Leone would then score a brace in the Confederations Cup final, a 3-0 win over Costa Rica. Leone won the Golden Boot and was named the Best Player.
Leone scored 12 goals in qualifying for the 2034 World Cup, most notably a hattrick in an 8-1 win against Armenia. On a team level, Italy also scored five goals from the 75th minute onwards after Wales took a 2-0 second half lead, with Leone scoring twice, to complete a remarkable 5-2 turnaround as they qualified for the World Cup. The 2034 World Cup, hosted by Japan, and being Leone’s last, kicked off with a 5-0 win over China, with Leone scoring twice. All goals game in the second half as these Chinese defensive resistance was finally breached. Leone then scored the only two goals in a 2-0 win over Ivory Coast, and once in a thrilling 4-2 win over Croatia. In the knockout stages, Leone scored twice in a 3-0 win over Uruguay, was scoreless as Italy defeated Iran 4-1, scored twice in a 4-1 win over Chile, and once in the final, a 4-1 victory over Canada. Leone finished with the most goals and assists in the World Cup, won the Golden Ball, and was named in the Dream Team, as he confirmed his retirement from international football at the conclusion of the tournament, maintaining his legacy as the most successful international footballer.
Speaking to the media after his full retirement at Sydney FC in 2040, Leone stated his one regret was “not being able to play for Australia”, before continuing “I would have to loved and wanted to play for both countries. But, at the end of the day, I’ve won everything at international level, so I can’t say if I could do things again I’d pick Australia over Italy, I wouldn’t. But it would have been a dream to represent Australia as well.”
Player Profile
[edit]Style of Play
[edit]"Normally we analyse players and look to exploit their weakness. But with (Aaron) he has no weakness. He will score in goal scoring areas, create chances when he's not, or cross when pushed wide. Then if you try to stay close he has the speed and dribbling to get out of anything."
- Carlo Aneclotti after a loss to Manchester United, May 2030
A versatile attacker, Leone is able to play on either wing, or through the centre of the pitch as an attacking midfielder or striker, sometimes even being deployed as a central midfielder. Leone is considered to be a perfectly rounded offensive player with no real weaknesses - with a natural high level of athleticism and fitness. His small stature and low centre of gravity enables him to weave past players with his greater agility and dribbling ability and despite his size, he has considerable body strength to shield the ball from challenges. Leone also is a highly technical player and effective playmaker, excelling with his passing accuracy, creativity and range, as well as being a clinical goal scorer being able to score almost anywhere on the pitch.
Leone is also lauded as a highly intelligent and tactically astute player. He is noted for his decisiveness, anticipation, off the ball movement and composure in front of goal; traits that have helped make him a deadly force in the final third. He emphasises his passion for the tactical side of the game as playing a big factor - and stated his desire to consider a role in coaching, management or analysis after his playing career. Leone is often tasked with passing on directions from the manager to his teammates.
As a right footed player, Leone has undegone many tactical evolutions throughout his youth and professional career. When he first started playing as a child, he played predominantly as a right midfielder, right back, and goalkeeper, before later on his youth career playing further up the pitch in positions such as left wing, attacking midfielder and striker. Although many would argue that a player not having a settled position would hinder their development, Leone instead claimed playing in more defensive roles as a youngster resulted in possessing above average defensive ability for an attacking player, and playing as a goalkeeper for many years allowed him to understand scoring from a goalkeeping perspective, which helped his own goalscoring ability.
In his first seasons at Sydney FC, Leone would play as a right midfielder as a traditional winger. Looking to stay wide, dribble, and get crosses in. He would also have to fulfill far more defensive duties. In his final season at Sydney FC and arguably his best, Leone would play as an attacking midfielder in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a position he described as his favourite. However, upon moving to AC Milan he would change position once again, this time playing on the left wing as an inside forward, where he would often cut inside and shoot or pass with his stronger foot. Vincenzo Montella, AC Milan manager at the time, believed it would be this position that would bring out and make most use of his attacking versatility and unique skill set. It was in this role that Leone would play for many years, establishing the left wing as his best position. However, after the arrival of Michael De Lucchi at Manchester United, Leone would move to the right wing ahead of the 2030/31 season. Although this move would result in less goals, chances created, and dribbles - Leone would see drastic increases to his crossing, and defensive output, once again highlighting his versatility across different roles. Upon his moves to LAFC, and return to Sydney FC, Leone would return to the left wing.
For Italy Leone also primarily played on the left wing, but has sporadically played as a striker, central midfielder and even a fullback for both club and country.
Reception
[edit]"I think we can now say we have the best player in the world."
- AC Milan manager Heiko Herrlich after AC Milan defeated Inter Milan 4-1 in the Serie A, May 2024.
Leone was considered a prodigious talent as a teenager when signing for his first professional club, Sydney FC, and was considered as Australia's next 'big thing'. Upon his move to AC Milan and decision to represent Italy, Leone was believed to have world class potential and a key member of the Italian national team in the future. However, Leone would struggle for consistency in his earlier years and would not be nearly as prolific as a goalscorer. It was not until the back end of the 2023-24 season, where Leone would hit his career best form, and many would begin to consider Leone as one of the world's finest. Italy would go on to secure the European Championship, and after starting the new season in good form, Leone was the public and media favourite to win the 2024 Ballon d'Or, but missed out to Kylian Mbappe in a controversial decision.
"He's the best player I've ever seen or managed. I am honoured I could work with him for ten memorable years."
- Jose Mourinho following his retirement from football, June 2034.
The following decade however would leave no doubt of Leone's stature within the football community, as he achieved an unprecedented ten consecutive Ballon d'Or awards, and fifteen consecutive FIFPro World XI (sixteen if substitute appearances are included) teams. With Leone's unprecedented success in multiple different leagues, the Champions League, and international football, along with a plethora of records and becoming the most decorated footballer in history, Leone is largely considered to be the greatest player of all time. For many years Leone was competing for the title with Lionel Messi. Upon his retirement in 2040 however, FIFA conducted an online poll that received tens of millions of votes, where Leone was overwhelmingly voted as the best player of all time (68.61%), ahead of other greats such as Lionel Messi (15.03%), Cristiano Ronaldo (4.24%), Diego Maradona (3.93%), Pele (3.89%), Johann Cruyff (1.22%), Zinedine Zidane (1.15%), and Alexander Leone (1.08%).
A major component of Leone's legacy is his success in every facet of the fame, winning every trophy and honour available, as well as his longevity and big game performance.
Comparisons
[edit]Often compared to Lionel Messi, Leone has a non-competitive view of this comparison, instead claiming that Messi was the biggest influence in his football development and the player he would try model his game off. In many aspects, Leone and Messi are quite similar, both small dimunitive players with exceptional dribbling ability, passing, and prolific goalscoring. Messi is often viewed as having slightly more natural technical ability, whereas Leone is seen as having more raw athleticism - with more pace, strength, aerial ability, and defensive ability.
In this respect, he is often considered a hybrid between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as he possesses somewhere in the middle of both players technical ability and athleticism.
However, one argument made in favour of Leone is his consistency and big game performance, where he will often perform in the big moments. Perhaps the biggest argument for Leone over Messi and Ronaldo is his international success. He has won more titles than both players for his club, although Messi has won the most individual honours and Balon d’Ors. Although, internationally Leone has won eight major titles, where as Ronaldo only won one, and Messi failed to deliver an international title.
In Popular Culture
[edit]Leone has earned over $350,000,000AU in his career on contract alone, with much more earnings coming through bonuses and endorsements. However, despite these earnings Leone has never been the top earner in the world. Speaking of his wages, Leone stated “I’m at my dream club playing my best football and winning everything. I’d never trade that for another hundred grand per week”.
"He's my brother. We both have dragon energy, and like, we have ultralight beams that make us do things everyone says we can't."
- President Kanye West in 2026
Nonetheless, as Leone’s reputation grew he became one of the worlds most marketable athletes, as his club Manchester United has huge worldwide appeal, especially in Asia. Leone has hundreds of millions of followers over Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. Leone would sign several sponsorship deals with major brands including: Nike, Coca-Cola, Apple, and Maserati among several others. Leone has also been the face of EA Sports FIFA on several editions, with his first appearance on FIFA 27 after moving to Manchester United and winning his first Ballon d’Or and World Cup.
Unlike many European Footballers, Leone has also branched into the North American market as he often visits the United States in the off season, and would later move to the MLS for one and a half years. He is often pictured with several American celebrities, and as a result is frequently referenced in American pop culture - music, tv, and movies.
Personal Life
[edit]Gladesville Galacticos
[edit]Leone is part of the universally lauded Gladesville Galacticos golden generation. This group of 20 players were a large social group of friends, colleagues, teammates and classmates. Initially this group would play futsal together, and after being spotted by a scout from amateur side Gladesville Ryde Magic, all 20 players were invited for a trial and subsequently signed. All 20 players would remain at the club for the next three years - establishing themselves as the most dominant amateur side in Australian football history as Leone would often stand out in the team. The Gladesville Galacticos would also impress in pre-season friendlies against A-League opposition, sparking wide interest. Ultimately the twenty players would be divided by four A-League clubs: Sydney FC (9 players), Newcastle Jets (4 players), Central Coast Mariners (4 players), and the Western Sydney Wanderers (3 players).
All these members would remain at their respective A-League clubs for the full three years of their contract. Then, in one of the most unbelievable transfer moves in history, AC Milan swooped in and signed all twenty players for a combined fee of £20,000,000 in an effort to rejuvenate their youth ranks. This unprecedented move garnered worldwide interest from the sporting world, and thrust a bunch on youngsters into the limelight before even arriving in Europe. Upon their arrival in Milan, they would all live together in a multi-million dollar bachelor pad, though many of these players would be loaned out. Nonetheless, this move was hugely successful as 17 of the 20 members would play at least one competitive fixture for AC Milan, and all would remain in the game professionally, while winning several domestic and continental titles.
Relationships
[edit]Upon the Gladesville Galacticos arrival in Milan, they would live together in a multi-million dollar bachelor pad - resulting in many members living the bachelor lifestyle. While visiting the United States several times in the off season, Leone reportedly had encounters with Rihanna, Dua Lipa, Rita Ora and Ariel Winter - which he himself has denied despite being pictured together. Leone’s first public relationship was revealed in 2024, when it was revealed he was dating Canadian singer and songwriter Alessia Cara. This would last until 2026 when the pair would split, which Leone would later emphasise was on good terms, with the pair reportedly remaining in contact. Leone then began to date Canadian political journalist in 2027, and the pair are now married. Leone proposed after Italy’s European Championship victory in Spain, and got married one week after Italy’s Confederations Cup victory in 2029. The pairs first child Vincenzo, was born on the 22nd of April 2030. With another daughter and son born, in 2032 and 2033 respectively.
After retiring at Sydney FC, Leone currently lives with his wife primarily still in Sydney. However, he also has holiday residencies in Milan, Rome, Manchester, London, Paris, Los Angeles, Miami, Las Vegas and Boston.
YouTube Channel
[edit]Leone owns an active YouTube channel in which he vlogs his daily life as a footballer, and uploads many comedy videos, sketches and challenges. The channel has millions of subscribers and is done as a hobby.
Charity
[edit]Throughout his career, Leone has been involved in a range of charitable work. In 2025, he announced the start of the Leone foundation with his brother Alexander - a broad charitable organisation that would assist in health care funding and access, and provide educational and sporting facilities for disadvantaged children. The foundation would also hold an annual friendly game containing professionals, ex players and celebrities in order to raise funds for the foundation. Furthermore, he has donated to several non-profit organisations. In 2027, after signing his new contract at Manchester United, Leone vowed to donate all his contract bonuses to charity - a figure estimated to be approximately $15,000,000 per year.
Controversies
[edit]Assault Charges: In January 2020 after a dispute with one of Aaron’s fathers ex-business partners, a physical altercation would arise that resulted in Leone knocking him out and hospitalising him. Leone pleaded guilty to the assault charges but claimed he did not initiate the physical altercation. He would be given 50 hours community service, a $10,000 fine, and was fined two weeks wages by Sydney FC.
Talk Show and Clementine Ford Controversy: As Leone’s overseas popularity would continue to rise, he would often be invited on to American TV shows during his visits. However, on a talk show Leone would cause controversy for his negative statements toward the feminist movement. In the coming weeks he would continue to be quizzed on political and social issues on other programs, constantly providing controversial opinions on the topic. He would not apologise for his views, instead stating that his opinions are “perfectly reasonable and shared by at least half the population, they’re just not politically correct”. Perhaps the most controversial moment was when noted feminist author Clementine Ford wrote an article critiquing the way Leone conducted himself on these talk shows. Leone would respond on twitter - “Was writing that article full of sh*t the most exercise you’ve gotten in your life you fat b*tch?”. He would later delete the tweet but did not issue an apology. The pair would continue to launch scatching tweets at each other over the coming weeks.
"President West's comments are not only problematic, they are also highly controversial and offensive. It is unacceptable that in this day and age a person of color have their own thoughts and not buy into the marxist agenda that helps his people. Then you have random soccer players like Aaron Leone who act as a mouthpiece and legitimize this bigoted, far-right, nazi agenda."
- Buzzfeed, 2026
Support for President Kanye West: While Leone was in the US & Canada for the 2026 World Cup, he spoke of his support for then president, Kanye West. These comments would draw much criticism for the left-wing media, as the Yeezy Party president was not held in high esteem, especially after his "highly controversial and offensive" comments when he stated that black people are allowed to have their own opinions.
Buzzfeed Defamation Case: Upon the revelation that Leone was dating outspoken and controversial journalist Lauren Southern, Buzzfeed published an article accusing Leone being part of the alt-right, a label he vehemently denied. Upon Buzzfeed’s refusal to retract the article and issue a formal apology, Leone would subsequently bring legal proceedings on the basis of libel and defmation. In January 2028, Leone would win his case and received a multi million dollar payout in compensation. The resulting damage to Buzzfeed’s reputation and their legal loss resulted in the company filing for bankruptcy just months later.
A Cold, Rainy Night at Stoke: United would travel to Stoke in November 2029. In a tense affair, United led 1-0 after Leone's first half goal. Late on in the game, Leone would become "wet", despite there not being a drop of rain in site. Leone would acknolowedge that he indeed was unable to hold it in after drinking too much water after an intense first half. He would then become subject to a barrage of memes in the coming weeks.
Career Statistics
[edit]Club
[edit]| Club | Season | League | Cup | Continental | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Sydney FC | 2017–18 | A-League | 26 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 8 | 2 | 38 | 10 |
| 2018–19 | 26 | 8 | 1 | 0 | — | 27 | 8 | |||
| 2019–20 | 29 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 4 | 38 | 12 | ||
| Total | 81 | 21 | 7 | 3 | 15 | 6 | 103 | 30 | ||
| AC Milan | 2020-21 | Serie A | 33 | 9 | 5 | 1 | 6 | 2 | 44 | 12 |
| 2021-22 | 36 | 9 | 4 | 1 | 8 | 1 | 48 | 11 | ||
| 2022–23 | 34 | 8 | 5 | 3 | 14 | 2 | 53 | 13 | ||
| 2023–24 | 36 | 12 | 6 | 4 | 11 | 3 | 52 | 19 | ||
| 2024–25 | 38 | 20 | 6 | 4 | 11 | 5 | 55 | 29 | ||
| Total | 177 | 58 | 25 | 13 | 50 | 13 | 252 | 84 | ||
| Manchester United | 2025–26 | Premier League | 36 | 27 | 12 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 61 | 51 |
| 2026–27 | 36 | 29 | 11 | 10 | 15 | 13 | 62 | 52 | ||
| 2027–28 | 36 | 46 | 9 | 5 | 16 | 9 | 61 | 60 | ||
| 2028–29 | 38 | 21 | 10 | 7 | 16 | 12 | 64 | 40 | ||
| 2029–30 | 37 | 37 | 12 | 13 | 10 | 10 | 59 | 60 | ||
| 2030–31 | 38 | 26 | 9 | 7 | 13 | 17 | 60 | 50 | ||
| 2031–32 | 37 | 31 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 9 | 64 | 54 | ||
| 2032–33 | 34 | 31 | 13 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 63 | 62 | ||
| 2033–34 | 38 | 50 | 11 | 14 | 16 | 27 | 65 | 91 | ||
| 2034–35 | 38 | 41 | 7 | 5 | 16 | 17 | 61 | 63 | ||
| Total | 369 | 339 | 107 | 100 | 145 | 144 | 620 | 583 | ||
| LAFC | 2035 | MLS | 20 | 22 | 4 | 8 | — | 24 | 30 | |
| 2036 | 39 | 27 | 5 | 7 | 11 | 9 | 55 | 43 | ||
| Total | 59 | 49 | 9 | 15 | 11 | 9 | 79 | 73 | ||
| Sydney FC | 2036–37 | A-League | 15 | 25 | — | — | 15 | 25 | ||
| 2037–38 | 29 | 29 | 5 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 42 | 48 | ||
| 2038–39 | 29 | 29 | 4 | 14 | 15 | 18 | 48 | 61 | ||
| 2039–40 | 27 | 33 | 5 | 7 | 16 | 14 | 48 | 54 | ||
| Total | 100 | 116 | 14 | 30 | 39 | 42 | 153 | 188 | ||
| Career total | 786 | 583 | 162 | 161 | 260 | 214 | 1208 | 958 | ||
International
[edit]| Team | Year | Apps | Goals | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Italy | 2020 | 4 | 1 | 0.25 |
| 2021 | 6 | 1 | 0.17 | |
| 2022 | 12 | 3 | 0.25 | |
| 2023 | 5 | 1 | 0.20 | |
| 2024 | 12 | 5 | 0.42 | |
| 2025 | 11 | 8 | 0.73 | |
| 2026 | 17 | 12 | 0.71 | |
| 2027 | 10 | 14 | 1.40 | |
| 2028 | 13 | 12 | 0.92 | |
| 2029 | 13 | 17 | 1.31 | |
| 2030 | 14 | 12 | 0.86 | |
| 2031 | 12 | 12 | 1.00 | |
| 2032 | 15 | 11 | 0.73 | |
| 2033 | 15 | 26 | 1.73 | |
| 2034 | 8 | 12 | 1.50 | |
| Career total | 167 | 147 | 0.88 | |
Honours and Achievements
[edit]Club
[edit]Sydney FC
- Hyundai A-League Premiers: 2019-20, 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- Hyundai A-League Champions: 2019-20, 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- Westfield FFA Cup: 2037-38, 2039-40
- AFC Asian Champions League: 2038, 2039
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2038, 2039
AC Milan
- Serie A: 2023-24, 2024-25
- Italian Cup: 2022-23, 2023-24, 2024-25
- Italian Super Cup: 2023-24, 2024-25
- UEFA Champions League: 2023-24
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2024
- UEFA Super Cup: 2024-25
Manchester United
- Premier League: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- FA Cup: 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2034-35
- League Cup: 2026-27, 2027-28, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34,
- Community Shield: 2025-26, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2033-34, 2034-35
- UEFA Champions League: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2031, 2032, 2033, 2034
- UEFA Super Cup: 2026-27, 2027-28, 2029-30, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34
LAFC
- MLS Supporters Shield: 2035, 2036
- MLS Cup: 2035, 2036
- MLS Western Conference Champions: 2035, 2036
- US Cup: 2035, 2036
- CONCACAF Champions League: 2036
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2036
International
[edit]Italy
- FIFA World Cup: 2026, 2030, 2034
- UEFA European Football Championship: 2024, 2028, 2032
- FIFA Confederations Cup: 2029, 2033
- UEFA European International League: 2023, 2025, 2027, 2029, 2031, 2033
- U21 European Championship: 2021
Individual
[edit]- Ballon d’Or: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032, 2033, 2034
- Best Player in Europe: 2024-25, 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- European Golden Shoe: 2027-28, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- FIFA FIFPro World XI: 2024, 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2030, 2031, 2032, 2033, 2034, 2035, 2036, 2037, 2038
- FIFA FIFPro World XI: 2039
- FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball: 2024, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, 2033, 2034, 2038, 2039
- UEFA Champions League Best Midfielder: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- UEFA Champions League Dream Team: 2024-25, 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- UEFA Champions League Golden Boot: 2025-26, 2030-31, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- UEFA Champions League Most Assists: 2028-29, 2031-32, 2033-34
- CONCACAF Champions League Golden Ball: 2036
- CONCACAF Champions League Dream Team: 2036
- CONCACAF Champions League Golden Boot: 2036
- CONCACAF Champions League Most Assists: 2036
- AFC Asian Champions League Most Valuable Player: 2038, 2039
- AFC Asian Champions League Dream Team: 2038, 2039
- AFC Asian Champions League Golden Boot: 2038
- AFC Asian Champions League Most Assists: 2038, 2039
- Hyundai A-League Johnny Warren Medal: 2019-20, 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- Hyundai A-League Team of the Season: 2019-20, 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- Hyundai A-League Golden Boot: 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- Hyundai A-League Most Assists: 2037-38
- Serie A Player of the Year: 2023-24, 2024-25
- Serie A Midfielder of the Year: 2023-24, 2024-25
- Serie A Most Assists: 2023-24
- Serie A Team of the Season: 2023-24, 2024-25
- FWA Footballer of the Year: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- PFA Premier League Team of the Season: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- Premier League Golden Boot: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- Premier League Most Assists: 2025-26, 2028-29, 2030-31, 2033-34, 2034-35
- Premier League Goal of the Season: 2027-28
- MLS Most Valuable Player: 2036
- MLS Newcomer of the Year: 2035
- MLS Best XI: 2035, 2036
- MLS Most Assists: 2035, 2036
- Sydney FC Supporters Player of the Year: 2036-37, 2037-38, 2038-39, 2039-40
- AC Milan Supporters Player of the Year: 2023-24
- Manchester United Supporters Player of the Year: 2025-26, 2026-27, 2027-28, 2028-29, 2029-30, 2030-31, 2031-32, 2032-33, 2033-34, 2034-35
- LAFC Supporters Player of the Year: 2035, 2036
- FIFA World Cup Golden Ball: 2026, 2030, 2034
- FIFA World Cup Dream Team: 2026, 2030, 2034
- FIFA World Cup Golden Boot: 2034
- FIFA World Cup Most Assists: 2026, 2030, 2034
- UEFA European Championship Dream Team Player of the Tournament: 2028, 2032
- UEFA European Championship Dream Team: 2028, 2032
- UEFA European Championship Dream Team Substitute: 2024
- UEFA European Championship Most Assists: 2032
- FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Ball: 2029, 2033
- FIFA Confederations Cup Golden Boot: 2029, 2033
- FIFA Confederations Cup Most Assists: 2029
Records
[edit]World
[edit]- Most Ballon d'Or awards: 10 times (2025-2034)
- Most Best Player in Europe awards (2024-2034)
- Most appearances in the FIFPro World XI: 16 times (2024-2039)
- Most European Golden Shoes: 5 (Shared with Cristiano Ronaldo)
- Most FIFA Club World Cup Golden Balls: 9 times (2024, 2026-2029, 2033, 2034, 2038, 2039)
- Most FIFA Club World Cup goals (31)
- Most FIFA Club World Cup assists (22)
- All time most career goals (1105)
- All time most career assists (605)
- Longest consecutive goal scoring streak: 33 matches, 50 goals in 2033
- Most career trophies won (103)
- Top goalscorer for club and country in a calendar year: 101 goals in 2033
- Top goalscorer in a club season: 91 goals in 2033-34
International
[edit]- Most FIFA World Cup goals (26)
- Most FIFA World Cup assists (21)
- Most FIFA World Cup Golden Balls: 3 times in 2026, 2030, 2034
- Most assists in a FIFA World Cup: 8 in 2034
- Most UEFA European Football Championship assists (14)
- Only player to have won the UEFA European Football Championship Best Player award more than once: 2 times in 2028, 2032
- Most assists in a UEFA European Football Championship: 7 in 2032
- Most FIFA Confederations Cup goals (20)
- Most FIFA Confederations Cup assists (11)
- Only player to have won the FIFA Confederations Cup Best Player award more than once: 2 times in 2029, 2033
- Most goals in a FIFA Confederations Cup: 11 in 2029
- Most assists in a FIFA Confederations Cup: 9 in 2029
- Most goals in a Confederations Cup match (9): vs. New Zealand 21-0, 8th of July 2029
- Italy all time leading scorer (147)
- Italy all time assist leader (86)
- All time most international goals (147)
- All time most international assists (86)
Continental
[edit]- Most UEFA Champions League goals (129)
- Most UEFA Champions League assists (72)
- Most goals in a UEFA Champions League season: 20 in 2033-34
- Most assists in a UEFA Champions League season: 13 in 2031-32
- Most UEFA Champions League Best Midfielder awards: 9 times
- Most appearances in the UEFA Champions League Dream Team: 10 times
- Most UEFA Champions League Golden Boots: 5 times
Domestic
[edit]- Most Premier League goals (339)
- Most Premier League assists (164)
- Most goals in a Premier League season: 50 in 2033-34
- Most assists in a Premier League season: 24 in 2029-30
- Most FWA Footballer of the Year awards: 10 times
- Most appearances in the PFA Premier League Team of the Season: 10 times
- Most Premier League Golden Boots: 8 times
- Most goals in a Premier League match (6): vs. Fulham 9-1, 1st of April 2028
- Most Hyundai A-League goals (137)
- Most goals in a Hyundai A-League season: 33 in 2039-40
- Most Hyundai A-League assists (71)
- Most Hyundai A-League Johnny Warren Medals: 5 times
- Most appearances in the Hyundai A-League Team of the Season: 5 times
- Most Hyundai A-League Golden Boots: 4 times
- Most goals in a Hyundai A-League Grand Final (4): vs. Western Sydney Wanderers 7-0, 10th of May 2037
- Most goals in a Westfield FFA Cup match (10): vs. Gosnells City 18-0, 3rd of August 2038
Club
[edit]- Manchester United all time leading scorer (583)
- Manchester United all time assist leader (296)
- Sydney FC all time leading scorer (218)
- Sydney FC all time assist leader (101)
