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Alexander Leone

Alexander Leone
Personal information

Full name	Alexander Phillip Leone
Date of birth	19 December 1997 (age 42)
Place of birth	Sydney, Australia
Height	1.62 m (5 ft 4 in)
Playing position	Striker
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	86	(33)
2020-2021	Fiorentina (loan)	28	(10)
2020-2027	AC Milan	197	(108)
2027-2033	Manchester United	207	(134)
2033-2034	Orlando City	59	(45)
2037-2040	LAFC	78	(57)
National team
2018-2019	Italy U21	8	(1)
2021–2032	Italy	112	(85)
Honours[show]
* Senior club appearances and goals counted for the domestic league only

Alexander Phillip Leone (born 19 December 1997) is an Italian-Australian professional footballer who plays predominantly as a striker for English club Manchester United and the Italian national team. Largely considered among the best players of his generation and all time, Leone has finished runner up for the Ballon d’Or twice in successive years (2029-2030) and finished on the podium for the Best Player in Europe award in five successive years (2026-2031). He has won 41 trophies in his career, including eight league titles, four UEFA Champions League titles, two FIFA World Cups and one UEFA European Championships. A prolific goalscorer, Leone has scored over 400 career goals for club and country - scoring at least 25 goals a season in the last eight seasons, and at least 30 goals a season for the last five seasons. He has also amassed eight Golden Boot, and two European Golden Shoe awards throughout his career.

…

Early Life

Alexander Phillip Leone was born on 19 December 1997 in Sydney, the oldest 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 often playing with his younger brother, Aaron, whom is currently Alexander’s teammate for both Manchester United and Italy.

At the age of eleven, Leone started playing for his local club, Five Dock Football Club, as a striker. He would then begin to play futsal. It was while he was playing futsal with 19 other friends that he was noticed by a scout at the age of sixteen. 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 40 goals in his 65 appearances at the club, and won the Golden Boot 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

Sydney FC

2017-2020: First professional seasons

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. Winning the golde boot the previous season, many considered him to be one of the better players of the Gladesville Galacticos generation. (Thoughts on signing for Sydney FC)

Leone would score his first goals for Sydney FC on the 3rd of November 2017, with a brace in a 2-0 victory away to Melbourne City. Just over two months later he would score his first career hattrick, in a 3-1 win away to Adelaide United. His debut season however 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 his debut season with 12 goals. (Thoughts on first season)

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 the Western Sydney Wanderers despite Leone scoring.

Sydney FC would also fail to qualify for the Asian Champions League. After beating Vietnamese outfit Da Nang 2-0 in the preliminary round, a Leone brace was not enough as 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 once again with 12 goals.

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. Criticism would also be reserved for Leone, who was not developing into the prolific goalscorer he was expected to. However, it was in his final season at the club where Leone played his best football. Sydney FC went on to finish Premiers, and Leone would score the opening goal in the semi final (a 4-1 victory over Melbourne Victory) and yet again in the grand final, defeating Perth Glory 2-0.

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 twice in the tie, with the latter being his last goal for the club. However, he 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 19 goals and 8 assists earned him a place in the team of the season.

Fiorentina (loan)

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.

(Thoughts on signing for AC Milan) However, of the 20 Gladesville Galacticos, only 6 remained at AC Milan for the entire season, with Leone being one of the many loaned out players. Leone was loaned alongside fellow Gladesville Galacticos member Kyri Tsalikidis to ACF Fiorentina, scoring his first goal in a Europa League qualifier away to CFR Cluj with a vital 89th minute equaliser. His transition to European football was highly successful, scoring 21 goals as Fiorentina’s leading scorer as they finished 8th. Leone would also score a series of important goals for the club. His first Serie A goal was the sole goal in the 68th minute in an away victory over Napoli. In the Europa League, Fiorentina would complete a remarkable comeback. Down 2-0 to Celta Vigo, Fiorentina would score in the 88th and 91st minute, before Leone scored a 94th minute winner. He would then follow this up weeks later with an 89th minute winner away to Lazio. Goalscoring masterclasses would continue: a hattrick in a 4-1 win over Palermo and a late brace to down Roma 2-0. Despite spending only one year at the club, Leone became a popular figure and was named the Fiorentina supporters player of the year.

AC Milan

2021-2022: Return to AC Milan

The following season, speculation arose as to whether Leone would remain at AC Milan, or be loaned out for another season. (Thoughts on staying or being loaned) Ultimately, he would remain at AC Milan, but was the second-choice striker behind Andrea Belotti. Leone scored his first goal for AC Milan in a 2-1 win over RB Leipzig in the Champions League. However, 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. In the second leg, a Leone brace had AC Milan 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 a disaapointing season for the club. (Thoughts on season) Leone finished with just 9 goals as he saw his playing time limited.

2022-2023: Leading the line at Milan

In the 2022-23 season, Leone would face a dauting task, taking over the legendary Andrea Belotti as the starting striker. A young AC Milan side would continue to gain experience and improve despite finishing 3rd and not competing for the title. However, Leone would win his first bit of silverware this season in the Italian Cup, defeating Juventus 1-0 in the final. AC Milan would also have a strong run into the Europa League final, helped by a Leone brace in the semi final first leg againt AZ Alkmaar where they won 2-0. They would go on to lose on penalties to Chelsea after a 0-0 draw. Leone improved from his first season, scoring 15 goals and providing 11 assists.

2023-2025: Treble winning season and individual success

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 would up his production to 26 goals and 15 asists, which included hattricks in a 4-2 win over Cremonese and a 5-1 win over Torino. They would first defeat Inter Milan in the Italian Cup final with a 4-2 victory, before defeating Inter Milan again in a pivotal league clash just days later in 4-1 away win, avenging their loss two years earlier. Heading into the final day, AC Milan played second placed Juventus at home, needing a draw to secure the title. They would clinch the title 3-0 behind a Leone brace. A week later they would avenge their Champions League elimination to Liverpool from two years earlier by beating them 2-0 in the final. Leone would win the Serie A Golden Boot, was named the Serie A Striker of the Year and made an appearance in the Serie A Team of the Season and Champions League Dream Team.

Expectations were high for AC Milan the following season, they were no longer the underdog anymore. The season got off to the perfect start, with winning the UEFA Super Cup and Italian Super Cup. Leone scored a brace in a 3-0 win against Barcelona and the winning goal in a 2-1 win against Inter Milan, in what would become his best goalscoring season to date with 37 goals. This would include three hattricks - 4-0 vs. Empoli, 3-0 vs. Cremonese and 3-0 away at Catania, his father’s place of birth. AC Milan would win the Club World Cup and retain their Serie A title, with Leone scoring some important goals - an 84th and 91st minute brace away to Sampdoria in a 2-0 win, and a brace against Roma in the final day. Leone would also score a crucial 110th minute extra time winner away against Napoli in the Italian Cup quarter final, as they would also go on to retain the Italian Cup, defeating Roma in the final. However, Milan 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 would earn his second successive selection to the team of the season, to go with second consecutive Serie A Golden Boot and Striker of the Year awards, while also winning the European Golden Shoe.

2025-2027: Only one Leone remains at Milan and transfer speculation

In a major transfer, Alexander’s brother Aaron would sign for Manchester United, leaving Alexander as the only Leone at the club. The post-Aaron era would start off well, as Leone would score in a 5-0 win over Roma to retain the Italian Super Cup. However, the season would ultimately end in heartbreak. Leone did not hit the heights of the previous season, but nonetheless would still have a strong goalscoring season and a few noteworthy performances. These included an 83rd minute winner in a 3-2 win over Brescia, a hattrick in a 3-0 win over Udinese, and a career first four-goal haul in a 5-1 win over Empoli. After trailing 2-0 at half time to Cremonese, Milan clawed one goal back and Leone would score in the 75th and 89th minute to put them ahead, eventually winning 4-2. A week later, Leone would score to put Milan ahead in 88th minute against Bologna, ultimately winning 3-1. This would place Milan in a strong position heading to the close of the season. Despite being knocked out of the Champions League semi finals by Manchester City, a 2-0 win over Juventus in the Italian Cup final would provide a good bit of momentum. Heading into the final day, AC Milan were three points ahead of second placed Napoli, needing only a draw to secure the title. Despite their superior goal difference, if both sides were equal on points Napoli would win the title via head to head results. Instead of celebration, tragedy would occur.

AC Milan fell behind to a shock 2-0 deficit inside ten minutes away to Cagliari with no change at half time, with the saving grace being Napoli too were down 2-1 at home to Palermo. However, in the other game, Palermo received a red card in the 55th minute, and Andrea Pinamonti would equalise in the 79th minute. AC Milan would continue to push for a route back into the game to no avail, losing 2-0. As this game finished first, there was a nervous wait for the full time whistle in Napoli who were drawing at the time. Then “the tragedy” would strike, an own goal by Palermo in the 94th minute handing Napoli the title. As news filtered into the stadium, the Milan players were subsequently mocked and jeered by the Cagliari fans - with the day being described by the Milan faithful as “la tragedia” (the tragedy). Leone would finish the season with 26 goals and 11 assists and maintained his place in the Serie A team of the season.

Despite speculation of leaving the club with several teams interested, Leone would refuse to comment on the speculation, but would later commit to staying at AC Milan for the season. The following season, Milan would get revenge over Napoli with a 2-0 win in the Italian Super Cup, and also started the league campaign with a twelve game unbeaten run. In what would ultimately be his last season at the club, Leone would score his highest tally in a season with 38 goals with a series of goalscoring masterclasses. This would include two hattrick: In a 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar and a 4-0 win over Entella. He would also score several clutch goals as AC Milan romped back to the Serie A title, including a 90th minute winner vs. Lazio, an 88th minute winner vs. Hellas Verona, an 84th minute goal to put Milan ahead vs. Verona, and a brace in a 2-0 win over Sampdoria. Leone would especially excel in the Champions League, with 13 goals in 13 games, 8 of which came in the knockout stages. Leone scored three in a 6-1 aggregate win over Sporting CP in the round of 16, a four-goal haul in the home leg of a 4-1 aggregate win over Bayern Munich in the quarter finals, and once in a 2-1 aggregate win over PSG in the semi finals. This would set up a Champions League final against Manchester United led by his brother Aaron, where AC Milan were defeated 2-0.

Manchester United

2027-2028: Leone reunion in Manchester

With an ageing Harry Kane, who would turn 34 before the season start, Manchester United were in the market for a new striker to lead the line. Despite being a fan favourite at Milan, Leone would sign for Manchester United for £82,000,000. Speaking of his departure, (Thoughts on leaving). Leone would once again be reunited with his younger brother Aaron, (thoughts on Aaron’s influence and thoughts on signing). Many in the media would question Leone’s longevity heading into the Premier League approaching the age of 30, (thoughts on media comment about age). Leone’s debut would come in a penalty shootout victory in the community shield, and his first goals would come days later in the form of a hattrick, as Manchester United decimated Olympique Marseille in the UEFA Super Cup 6-0. His first Premier League goal again would arrive days later again on his Premier League and Old Trafford debut, with a 4-0 win over Middlesbrough. Leone would not find his best form in the league, scoring 13 goals in 34 games, but would bring his best to cup and continental games with 24 goals in 22 games. This would include some vital performances that led to trophies. Leone would score a hattrick against Manchester City in a 4-1 win in the League Cup, and three goals over two games in an 8-1 aggregate win over Liverpool in the semi final. Manchester United would go on to win the League Cup. He would also score a brace against Atletico Mineiro, 2-0 in the Club World Cup final.

The Champions League would be where Leone would shine the most, as he would ultimately finish with the Golden Boot, and be named in the Dream Team and as the Best Forward. In the group stage, he would score a six-minute hattrick away to Valencia. In the knockout stages he would also score three goals in a 5-4 aggregate win over PSG, in one of the most remarkable Champions League comebacks in history. After losing 2-1 away to PSG in the first leg and Leone grabbing the away goal, he would score twice as 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, scoring in the 91st and 94th minute. Manchester United would ultimately retain the Champions League title, and Leone would win his second European title in his career.

2028-2030: Sustained success and best years

Manchester United started the 2028-29 season with a 3-1 Community Shield win over rivals Liverpool but go down in the UEFA Super Cup to RB Leipzig. The rest of the domestic season would replicate the previous year, as United would once again win the Club World Cup and cruise to another league title. Leone would improve his goalscoring record, scoring three hattricks in the process: A 3-0 away win and an 8-0 home win over RB Salzburg in the Champions League, and a 9-0 win over Monterrey in the Club World Cup semi final. He would also score some important goals in the build up to the Champions League final, and score in the final itself - a 2-0 win over PSG. Yet again, Leone would win a trio of awards in the Champions League - Golden Boot, Dream Team and Best Forward, to go with his first selection in the World Team of the Year, and Premier League Team of the Season. He finished the 2028-29 season with 47 goals and 19 assists.

Manchester United would continue their success into the new season, with victories in both the Community Shield and UEFA Super Cup wand 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. Leone scored his 100th Manchester United goal in a 7-0 drubbing of Galatasaray. Once again, United win the Club World Cup, with Leone scoring a hattrick in a 7-0 demolition over Boca in the final. The 2029-30 season would statistically be the best of Leone’s career, with a series of goalscoring performance across all competitions. He would win the Premier League Golden Boot for the first time to go with yet another Team of the Season and World Team of the Year appearance, as well as winning his second European Golden Shoe. Some goalscoring displays would include: A hattrick against bitter rivals Leeds in a 6-1 win, followed up by a brace in the return fixture in a 3-0 win, a hattrick in a 4-0 win over Chelsea, and a late brace away to Leicester that would include a 93rd minute equaliser. However, Leone would 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. Nonetheless, Leone would win the FA Cup behind his three consecutive braces: a 5-0 win over Leeds once again in the quarter final, and a 3-1 win over both Chelsea and Arsenal in the semi final and final respectively. He finished the season with 56 goals and 17 assists.

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 to further strengthen an already world class squad. 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. After a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in the Community Shield, Leone would score in the first four Premier League games, followed by a four-goal haul in a 9-1 win over Olympiakos. After a League Cup victory on penalties against Chelsea, Leone would score a brace away at Stamford Bridge that included an 85th minute winner. Manchester United would make the Champions League final with relative ease - 7-1 vs. SL Benfica, 2-1 vs. RB Leipzig, and 6-3 vs. Bayern Munich. After also qualifying through to the FA Cup Final and breezing through the league, United were set up for a historic unbeaten treble which they would win starting with a 3-2 win over Crystal Palace 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 semi final to Manchester United. However, United ran out comfortable 3-0 winners at Wembley, proving their superiority in world football and regaining the European crown from their city rivals. Leone finished the season with 35 goals and 18 assists, and won the Champions League Best Forward award, also being named in the World Team of the Year, Premier League Team of the Season, and Champions League Dream Team.

2031-2032: Back to back trebles

A broken leg early in the off season would rule Leone out of Manchester United’s first few games of the season, however, fresh from the highs of the previous season, United’s dominance would continue despite his absence with victories in the Community Shield and the UEFA Super Cup. Leone would also pick up where he left off continuing to score on a consistent basis upon his return. His first hattrick would come in a 4-1 away win over Derby, but Leone’s best goal scoring feats would be reserved for the Club World Cup. After a hattrick in the semi final led Manchester United to a 5-0 win over Club América, Leone would then score a career-high six goals in a 10-0 win over underdogs East Bengal in the final, in front of over 70,000 fans in India. These performances would earn Leone the Club World Cup Best Player award. The goals would continue to flow in all competitions for Leone, scoring a hattrick in a 5-1 win over Everton in the League Cup quarter final, and a vital 106th minute goal in extra time to put Manchester United ahead in the League Cup semi final second leg against Manchester City. United would go on to win the League Cup as Leone scored once again in the final - a 2-0 victory against Arsenal. Leone would also score a hattrick against Nottingham Forest in a 7-0 drubbing, but would save most of his goals for the Champions League run. This would include four goals as United defeated Monaco 5-1 in the first leg. In the semi finals, United were once again paired with their city rivals. A sole 84th minute strike by Leone would give Manchester United the slender advantage heading into the away leg, a game in which Leone would score two daggers. His first goal gave United a 3-1 aggregate lead in the first half. Then, as Manchester City pulled one back in the 84th minute and were pushing for a final siege, Leone would break City hearts with another goal in the 89th minute, with United ultimately winning 5-3 on aggregate in an “instant Champions League classic”. Manchester United would then go on to be the first team in European history to win a back to back ‘Continental Treble’, defeating Newcastle 3-1 in the FA Cup Final, and FC Porto 2-0 in the Champions League final with Leone scoring once. The accolades would continue to roll in, being named in the World Team of the Year, Premier League Team of the Season, and the Champions League Dream Team, Best Forward, and Golden Boot with a total of 56 goals and 16 assists in all competitions.

2032-2033: Final season at Manchester United

In what would ultimately be his final season at the club, 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. However, Leone would score in the next four consecutive games to kick start their season. Leone would enjoy a good start to the season, with his best performance coming in an 8-0 drubbing against Bayern Munich in the Champions League where he would score four goals, scoring his 100th Champions League goal in the process. Leone would become just the third player (after Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi) to acheive this milestone. Just over a month later, United would win the Club World Cup, and Leone would be named in the World Team of the Year for the 5th consecutive year. The new year however, would mark somewhat of a poor spell of form. Leone would score 5 goals in the first month and a half of the year, but after that would go on a 100-day dry spell. During this period, Leone would announce his decision to leave the club when his contract expired at the end of the season, citing a desire to play abroad: Press conference comments on leaving. Manchester United would still nonetheless claim the League Cup, Premier League, and FA Cup. This would give them the chance to complete a third consecutive treble. Despite a long goal scoring drought, and calls to be dropped for the Champions League final, Mourinho would keep his faith in Leone, in a competition where he seemed to bring his best. The move would pay off, as Leone scored in a 4-3 win over Arsenal in his final appearance for the club. Thoughts on scoring in his final game after a long dry spell. Leone would finish the season with 23 goals and 13 assists, and was named in the Champions League Dream Team.

Orlando City

2033-2034: Alexander’s American adventure

Just one day after winning the Champions League final, Orlando City announced the signing of Alexander to much fanfare and media hype in a packed out press conference. Reason why he chose Orlando. This signing was considered a major coup for the MLS, and Leone was also considered to be the best player to have signed for an MLS side. Reason why he came to the MLS despite being good enough to stay in Europe. Leone made his debut for Orlando City immediately, scoring in a 4-2 win over Portland Timbers. Orlando City were outside the playoff positions, but Leone’s arrival would provide them with a much needed momentum boost. Orlando immediately went on an eight game winning streak, with Leone scoring in every game, and 13 goals in total. This would also include a hattrick against Miami FC in the US Cup. Orlando would then suffer a dip in form, going 8 games without a win in the MLS. However, they would still be victorious in the US Cup, defeating New York Red Bulls on penalties after a 0-0 draw, securing their first trophy in their history. Thoughts on winning Orlando’s first trophy. After the US Cup victory, Orlando would go on a strong run of form to end the season, finishing 3rd in their conference. They would also kick start their playoff run with a 4-1 win over New York Red Bulls behind two late Leone goals, but would lose 7-5 on aggregate in the Eastern Conference Semi Final against D.C. United. Despite joining midway through the season, Leone would finish 3rd in MVP voting, be named in the MLS Best XI, and was named as the MLS Newcomer of the Year with a total of 26 goals and 9 assists.

With a full preseason behind his belt, Leone would begin the new season with consistent goalscoring form. Orlando City would also go on a strong North American Champions League run, but would fall at the final hurdle as they were defeated 5-2 on aggregate by Santos Laguna, despite Leone scoring both goals and being named in the Dream Team. Orlando would also have a strong attempt at retaining the US Cup. This included a thrilling win on penalties after a 4-4 draw with Chicago Fire, and Leone scoring all four goals. They would then also defeat Atlanta United in the quarter finals on penalties, but would be eliminated by Sporting Kansas City in extra time in the semi final. Orlando would scrape in a 2nd placed finish in the Eastern Conference thanks to Atlanta United losing on the final day. This meant they would avoid the Wild Card match. In the Eastern Conference Semi Final, Orlando would lose 1-0 away to Philadelphia Union in the first leg. In the second leg, with Orlando leading 1-0 (1-1 on aggregate), Leone would score in the 84th and 87th minute to send Orlando through to the conference final. Once again, they would lose the first leg, 2-0 away to Chicago Fire. However, despite a Leone goal, a 1-0 win in the second leg was not enough to qualify for the MLS Cup. Leone would score 39 goals and provide 10 assists in all competitions, which would win him the MLS Golden Boot, finish 2nd in MVP voting, and be named in the MLS Best XI.

LAFC

2035-2036: Trade to LAFC

Ahead of the 2035 MLS season, Orlando City decided to head in a different direction, and subsequently traded Leone to LAFC for LAFC’s 1st and 4th round pick in the 2036 MLS Superdraft. Orlando City insisted the move was to rebuild for the future, whereas LAFC were after instant success, having only won one US Cup in their history. Orlando City fans were devastated that a fan favourite was traded, while LAFC fans were thrilled at bringing in an all-time great, however media and expert opinion on the trade was split. Leone would link up with former ‘Gladesville Galactico’ and Sydney FC teammate Nicholas Collinson. In the press conference announcing Leone’s arrival, Thoughts on being traded to LAFC. Leone would score his first goal for LAFC in a 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo. Despite the loss, LAFC enjoyed a strong start to the season, with Leone bagging many goals. His first hattrick would come in a 4-2 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps, once again weeks later against Seattle Sounders, and then against New England Revolution. Leone would also look to win the US Cup with his second club, kicking off with a 2-0 extra time win over city rivals LA Galaxy, and Leone scoring both goals. In early July, Alexander would once again link up with his brother Aaron, a move that would make LAFC overwhelming favourites to win the MLS. As strong as LAFC were on paper, they would deliver on the pitch, going undefeated for the remainder of the regular season. In the same time period, Leone would score against his former club Orlando City, but would not celebrate. He would also tally is 4th hattrick of the season, in a 4-1 win over New York Red Bulls, and score in the US Cup final, defeating D.C. United 2-0. LAFC would easily top their conference and win the MLS Supporters Shield. They would then defeat San Jose 4-1 on aggregate in the conference semi finals to face Portland Timbers in the conference final. Portland would register a shock 2-1 win in the first leg, and score an away goal in the second leg to put LAFC on the brink of elimination. However, LAFC would score late on to go through 4-3 on aggregate. There would be no such problems in the MLS Cup however, as LAFC cruised to a resounding 8-0 win over New England Revolution, with Leone scoring twice. Leone would finish the season with 39 goals and 9 assists, and was named in the MLS Best XI, and win the MVP and Golden Boot awards. He would also become the oldest outfield player at the time to have been named in the World Team of the Year, and the equal first (alongside Aaron) to be named in the World Team of the Year while playing outside of Europe. Despite initially deciding to retire at the end of the season, Leone would opt to play on for one more season after winning the MLS Cup.

2036-2037: Leone’s final year: LAFC super team

Ahead of the 2036 season, and Leone once again reiterating this would be his last, LAFC continued to recruit to further strengthen their ‘super team’. During the preseason, LAFC would defeat Costa Rican side Saprissa 5-2 on aggregate in the North American Champions League Round of 16, with Leone scoring three goals. Despite losing the home leg 2-1 to Chivas in the quarter final, LAFC would turn things around in the away leg by winning 2-0. LAFC would also enjoy an explosive start to the MLS season, with Leone scoring a 93rd minute winner away to Montreal Impact, and then a brace in a 4-0 win against Philadelphia Union in the first two games. 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 once in the final. They would also win the US Cup after a 4-1 win over Real Salt Lake, and Leone scoring again in the final. 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. But an early goal in the second leg from Leone would settle nerves, as LAFC went through to the MLS Cup 3-1 on aggregate. LAFC would play Leone’s former side, Orlando City, in the MLS Cup, where he would score once in a comfortable 4-1 victory. Leone would win the MLS Fairplay Award. LAFC’s Champions League success would then qualify them for the FIFA Club World Cup. They would open the campaign with a 2-0 win over the Egyptian host side, Zamalek. Leone would score a brace in the semi final, defeating Argentinian side River 3-0, to set up a clash with European Champions Atletico Madrid in the final. Despite being major underdogs, Leone would score just 52 seconds into the final, and was substituted late on to a rousing ovation from the Egyptian crowd in his final ever game. LAFC would cling on to an unlikely 1-0 victory to become the first American side to win the Club World Cup, and Leone would go out as the game-winning goal scorer, and win the Club World Cup Best Player award. Leone finished his final season with 30 goals and 14 assists.

International Career

2018-2020: The decision

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, (Reasoning behind decision) 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. (Thoughts towards Australian fans)

2021-2025: Debut and early years

Leone made his Italy debut on the 9th of June 2021 in a 1-0 loss to Croatia. This was a pre-Confederations Cup friendly, a tournament which he would be selected in the squad. 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. His first international goals would come in the opening game of the tournament in a 2-0 win over Qatar. Italy would finish the tournament in third.

In the coming years, Leone would remain on the periphery of the national team squad, and as was the case for AC Milan at the time, often selected behind Andrea Belotti. He would not make the cut for the 2022 World Cup, where Italy would ultimately crash out in the round of 16. The following year however, Leone would win his first piece of international silverware as he scored in a 3-1 win over Portugal in the European International League final.

Leone would overtake Andrea Belotti as the clubs leading striker at AC Milan, but the rise of Pietro Pellegri kept him out of the starting striker position for Italy. He would spend most of his playing time out at right wing, and would also fail to make the squad for the 2024 European Championship which Italy would win. The following year, Leone would secure his second consecutive European International League title scoring again in the final, a 3-0 win over Belgium.

2026: Campioni del mondo

2026 would be the year Leone would establish himself on the international scene. As there were question marks over Pietro Pellegri’s fitness and condition, considering a long-term spinal injury throughout the season, and several niggles leading up to the World Cup, Leone would assume the starting striker position for the World Cup. 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. 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, Leone would score a four-goal haul 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.

Leone would then score three braces in four knockout games, first in a 5-1 win over Switzerland, then the final two goals in a 5-2 win over England. Leone would not score in 3-1 extra time win over Spain in the semi final, but would score twice in a man of the match performance in the World Cup final in a 3-0 win over France. Italy would avenge their elimination from the last three tournaments at the hands of France and repeat their 2006 success. Leone won the World Cup Golden Boot winner, and was named to the Dream Team. (Thoughts on winning the World Cup).

Following the World Cup, Leone would go on to score another two braces in Italy’s first two competitive games, finishing with his best goalscoring year for the national team, and becoming the incumbent striker for Italy.

2027-2029: Back to back European titles and Confederations Cup

Italy would win their third consecutive European International League. In the final, Russia led 1-0, only to equalise through a penalty in the 95th minute. In extra time, Leone would score the winning goal in the 116th minute.

Leone would then make the squad for the 2028 European Championship as Italy were lookng to defend their European crown. The group stage fixtures would kick off with a 3-0 win over Ukraine, followed by a 5-1 win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, and a 1-1 draw with Romania - Leone scored three goals in the group stage. Once again, his best performances would come in the knockout stages as he scored six, just like he did in the World Cup two years earlier. In the round of 16, Leone would score a hattrick as Italy sunk the Czech Republic 4-1. After a 2-0 win against Norway in the quarter finals, he would score a brace in a 5-1 win over Spain in the semi finals. 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 opening goal. Italy were now gathering momentum and considered one of the great national teams. Leone would once again win another Golden Boot and Dream Team appearance.

Leone and Italy would continue their fine form in 2029, winning another European International League as Leone scored a brace in a 4-1 win over Netherlands in the final. He would then be selected to a third consecutive major tournament - the 2029 Confederations Cup. In the first group game, Italy were stunned 1-0 against Australia, but clicked back into gear in remarkable 7-0 victory over Brazil. The next game however would go down as one of the most unbelievable scorelines in football history, as Italy destroyed New Zealand 21-0 with Leone scoring twice. This was the record for the most goals scored by a team 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 second goal in extra time. Italy would meet Australia again in the final. This time however, Italy were comfortable 3-1 winners as Leone scored the opening goal.

Another seven goals would come Leone’s way for the rest of the year during the World Cup Qualifiers, including a four-goal haul against Albania, to take his 2029 tally to 18 goals, his best ever goalscoring year for Italy.

2030: Best national side in history

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, and one goal in a 5-0 win over Cameroon. Italy would also beat Germany 3-0 in the final group hame. In the knockout stages, Italy would progress in a 3-1 win over Brazil. They then defeated Mexico 4-0 behind two goals from Leone 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 to secure a final berth.

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 would equalise in the 65th minute, through one of the most iconic World Cup assists in history from his brother Aaron. Italy would go on to win 2-1 and retain the World Cup. After this 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).

2031-2032: Going out on a high

Italy would once again win the European International League in 2031 for the sixth consecutive time, and comfortably qualified for the 2032 European Championship. In the build up to the tournament, Leone stated this would be his last for the national team citing Reason for retirement. Italy would qualify from the group stage with relative ease as they won all three games, beating Denmark 3-0, Scotland 3-0, and Czech Republic 2-1 with Leone scoring four goals. Italy would make things difficult for themselves in the knockout stages, needing a late equaliser against Russia to send the game to extra time, where Leone would seal the game in the 119th minute in a 3-1 victory. Again, they would go down to Wales, requiring an equaliser and an extra time goal to win 2-1 and qualify for the semi finals. Italy would then defeat Greece 3-0 in the semi final, and Portugal 3-1 in the final as Leone finished his national team career as champions. Thoughts on going out a champion. After his international retirement, the Italian Football Federation (FIGC) ran a poll where Leone was named the best Italian striker of all time, and second best Italian player of all time.

Player Profile

Style of Play

An explosive right-footed striker, Leone has spent his career playing primarily as a striker, but has also spent periods on the right wing. He is regarded for his pace and acceleration, and deceptive strength considering his size. A clinical finisher with intelligent off the ball movement, Leone is lauded as one of the great prolific and natural goalscorers of all time. Also technically proficient, Leone is capable of picking out teammates and creating for others with his passing, vision, and technique, resulting in a higher assist tally than most strikers in the world. Leone has had a seamless tactical development, as he has consistently played as a striker throughout his youth career into his professional career. However, in his early national team career he would play mostly on the right wing under Vincenzo Montella, and was effective in doing so as he would blend his natural athleticism and attacking nature with his dribbling ability.

Reception

Leone is often considered among the best pure strikers of his generation and all time. In a 2040 online poll conducted by FIFA with tens of millions of votes, Leone was voted as the second best striker of all time, only behind Pele. In all positions, he was ranked as the eigth best pest player of all time, behind Aaron Leone, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Diego Maradona, Pele, Johann Cruyff and Zinedine Zidane. Leone is also often regarded as the best player to have never won a Ballon d’Or (excluding Pele and Maradona who were ineligible for the award). The primary reason for Leone not winning such major individual honours is ironically his younger brother Aaron. Had Alexander been uncontested, he would have three Ballon d’Or’s and two Best Player in Europe awards, among several other individual honours. When asked if he felt he was under appreciated, Leone would state (Thoughts on underappreciation)

Comparisons

Leone draws parallels with both Ronaldo and Cristiano Ronaldo, as he is a natural goalscorer blended with high level technical ability and athleticism. For much of his younger career, Leone was likened to Ronaldo, and often referred to as the "Italian Ronaldo". Despite not winning a Ballon d'Or, Leone would soon be held in higher esteem. The two players had virtually identical international records (two world cups, two continential titles, and one confederations cup) although Leone has 23 more international goals. What would separate Leone from Ronaldo is his vastly superior club record, and especially, his longevity. Ronaldo for example, was unable to score 20 goals in a European club season after the age of 28, and his career was plagued with injury, fitness issues, and quick decline. Conversely, Leone would maintain his standards into his thirties, winning the 2032 European Championship as well as the Golden Boot, scoring 56 club goals in the 2031-32 season, and being the runner up for the Best Player in Europe award at the age of 34. Leone also scored more than half his career goals after the age of 30, and after being named to FIFPro World XI in 2035, he became the oldest outfield player (at the time) to be selected into the team at the age of 38. Leone would ultimately end up with 274 more career goals than Ronaldo.

As Leone's legacy was elevated in the later years of his career, he was more frequently compared to Cristiano Ronaldo, who would also maintain a high standard into his thirties. Both players would adjust their style become more clinical goalscorers as their physical attributes declined. Leone has achieved more international successes, although Cristiano Ronaldo has more individual honours and 76 more career goals.

In Popular Culture

Personal Life

Gladesville Galacticos

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. 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

Leone's first public relationship was revealed in June 2024, when he confirmed he was dating Instagram model Sommer Ray. The pair would remain together for 6 months, and would split up on bad terms following Leone being caught cheating with seven Korean women in an intoxicating sex-scandal.

Leone would later meet another Instagram model, this time Ivana Santacruz in 2026. After four years together, Leone proposed after scoring in, and winning the 2030 FIFA World Cup final against Spain, in Spain. The pairs wedding would take place one year later. The pairs first child, Mikayla, would arrive in 2032, and a son, Francesco, one year later. The married couple now constantly hop around various residencies - in Sydney, Los Angeles, Orlando, Milan, and Manchester.

Entrepreneurship

Leone created a premium online personal training service called 'Golden Lion Online Fitness' for aspiring footballers who want to improve and play like Alexander. Leone has always had an interest in fitness, and this project was a way to pursue his passions outside of football. Leone has also discussed the possibility and interest in becoming a fitness coach in future.

Charity

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 Aaron - 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.

Controversies

Drug Dealer Suspicions: After signing his first contract at Sydney FC, Leone was often spotted driving several prestigious, and sports cars, including both a Nissan Skyline GTR R34, GTR R35, Maserati Coupe GT, Chrysler 300, Porsche 911 Carrera, and a Lotus Esprit. This was despite the fact that Leone earned less than AU$2,000 a week while at Sydney FC. Many would conspiratorially theorise that Leone was a drug dealer due to possessing many expensive items despite his young age and minimal contract. As this theory picked up heat, many in the media would pick up the story, which subsequently led to Leone being drug tested, and his residence audited in 2019. A white substance was found in a bag, but upon lab analysis it was shown to only be protein powder.

Korean Prostitute and Cheating Controversy: After winning the UEFA Champions League with AC Milan in the 2023-24 season, they would qualify for the 2024 edition of the FIFA Club World Cup in Seoul, South Korea. AC Milan would defeat Club América 2-0 in the final. Following their Club World Cup victory, Leone was photographed that night in a booze-fuelled sex party with seven Korean girls, despite being in a relationship with social media influencer Sommer Ray at the time. Local paparazzi, Fo To-Dik blackmailed Alexander for ₩100,000,000 (AU$120,000), or the photos would be released. Alexander would accept the offer to hide these images from the public and keep the incident private, however the images were still subsequently leaked to the media. Leone would receive a large backlash, and claimed that the incident was a result of being "too drunk", also alleging that his "Long Island Iced Teas were drugged". Leone would then split with his partner Sommer Ray, who launched a scathing Instagram caption calling Alexander out, accompanied with a revealing picture of her buttocks with the hashtag '#ThisAintForYouNoMore' and '#WeAreFinished' to her tens of millions of followers, with the post itself getting millions of likes. Leone would also like the image, and commented "hahaha #WheresTheT*ts?". A week after the backlash, Leone would score against Bologna, and made a jerking motion to the camera to simulate masturbation, a tongue-in-cheek response to the media following the recent sex-scandal backlash. For this gesture, Leone was fined by the FIGC.

Skiing Accident: In the 2031 off-season, Leone would travel back to Australia for a ski trip as he was challenged by his longtime friend to a skiing race. The event would be livestreamed on YouTube with millions of viewers. The challenger was 'Mrsgorjess', with her channel having millions of subscribers after a sex-tape was leaked with her girlfriend. Leone would overestimate his abilities in the race, and after picking up too much speed he was unable to slow down, crashing into a tree and breaking his leg. This injury would see him miss the start of the 2031-32 season. Mrsgorjess would then receive a barrage of abuse and hate mail, with many upset Manchester United fans feeling she was partly responsible for the accident.

Career Statistics

Club

Club	Season	League			Cup		Continental		Total
Club	Season	Division	Apps	Goals	Apps	Goals	Apps	Goals	Apps	Goals
Sydney FC	2017–18	A-League	28	9	3	0	8	3	39	12
	2018–19		29	9	1	1	2	2	32	12
	2019–20		29	15	2	0	8	4	39	19
	Total		86	33	6	1	18	9	110	43
Fiorentina (loan)	2020-21	Serie A	28	10	2	4	12	7	42	21
Fiorentina (loan)	Total		28	10	2	4	12	7	42	21
AC Milan	2021-22	Serie A	23	5	3	0	7	4	33	9
	2022–23		32	10	3	0	14	5	49	15
	2023–24		37	23	6	0	12	3	55	26
	2024–25		34	27	5	2	10	8	49	37
	2025–26		33	22	5	1	12	3	50	26
	2026–27		38	21	3	4	13	13	54	38
	Total		197	108	25	7	68	36	290	151
Manchester United	2027–28	Premier League	34	13	7	8	15	16	56	37
	2028–29		38	27	7	1	16	19	61	47
	2029–30		38	38	10	8	11	10	59	56
	2030–31		37	22	9	0	13	13	59	35
	2031–32		32	22	10	7	15	27	57	56
	2032–33		28	12	1	0	15	11	44	23
	Total		207	134	44	24	85	96	336	254
Orlando City	2033	MLS	21	17	6	9	—		27	26
	2034	MLS	38	28	4	6	8	5	50	39
	Total		59	45	10	15	8	5	77	65
LAFC	2035	MLS	39	35	5	4	—		44	39
	2036	MLS	39	22	2	1	11	7	52	30
	Total		78	57	7	5	11	7	96	69
Career total			655	387	94	56	202	160	951	603

International

Team	Year	Apps	Goals	Ratio
Italy	2021	4	2	0.50
	2022	1	0	0.00
	2023	7	3	0.43
	2024	9	1	0.11
	2025	6	5	0.83
	2026	13	16	1.23
	2027	10	6	0.60
	2028	15	13	0.87
	2029	17	18	1.06
	2030	14	11	0.79
	2031	8	5	0.63
	2032	8	5	0.63
Career total		112	85	0.88

Honours and Achievements

Club

Sydney FC

AC Milan

Manchester United

Orlando City

US Cup: 2033

LAFC

International

Italy

Individual

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