The 27-year-old had effectively signalled his departure earlier this summer following a difficult season in which injuries and a publicly fractious relationship with Massimiliano Allegri limited his contribution to 10 goals and 3 assists across all competitions. AC Milan's failure to qualify for the Champions League for a second successive season appeared to confirm his exit.
"He is a very good coach," Leão said of Amorim to DAZN after coming off the bench in Houston. "I will make a definitive decision only after the World Cup."
On the goal itself, he was emotional.
"I must celebrate with my family because this season has been difficult for me. Injuries and many things in between. Even at Milan. I have to thank my family who have helped me until now. This match and this goal are for them."
The Portuguese compatriot dynamic with Amorim — who admires Leão's profile for his pressing-based system — is the key variable. AC Milan owner Gerry Cardinale and Amorim both view Leão as central to the new era. His contract runs until 2028 with a €175m release clause.
The situation of Christian Pulisic presents a separate uncertainty. The United States captain has been offered a lavish deal by New York City FC worth $50m across a five-year contract, and according to La Gazzetta dello Sport the approach has given the American pause after a season disrupted by chronic bursitis and a goal drought that stretched from January until the World Cup.
Cardinale and Amorim consider Pulisic equally untransferable, viewing him as a cornerstone of the project. Contract extension discussions had been progressing until earlier this year — a deal to 2030 worth around €5m a season plus bonuses was close — but talks have since stalled. Pulisic's contract runs to 2027 with a club option for a further year.
He is understood to want a salary above Leão's current €7m — the highest in the squad — which represents the sticking point in any renewal. NYCFC, part of the City Football Group, are pushing for an answer before the end of the World Cup. Milan's position is clear: neither player is for sale.