Santiago Gimenez is under increasing pressure at AC Milan as the club expects immediate impact from their recent investment. He arrived during a significant winter transfer overhaul, with Milan spending a total fee that could reach €35 million for his services, reflecting their high expectations.
Despite being signed off the back of an impressive record at Feyenoord—where he scored seven league goals in 11 Eredivisie appearances and five goals in just five Champions League matches—his adaptation to Serie A has proven to be much tougher. Up to now, Gimenez has not managed to find the net in Italy’s top-flight competition, having started eight out of nine possible matches since his arrival.
Urgency Surrounding Gimenez’s Role
Within the club, there is a clear sense of urgency regarding Gimenez’s position. Italian media, including La Gazzetta dello Sport, report that the striker has roughly two months—equivalent to at least eight Serie A appearances—to demonstrate that he can be the consistent striker Milan needs. The clock may extend by one more game depending on Milan’s progress in the Supercoppa Italiana.
This timeline is significant because of both the investment made and the lack of contribution on the scoresheet. AC Milan invested a total sum of up to €35 million including bonuses, raising the stakes for both player and club with each match played.
AC Milan’s Challenging Squad Dynamics
While Gimenez was not initially penciled in as the undisputed starter, injuries throughout the squad have given him more opportunities. Early after his arrival, players like Rafael Leao and Christopher Nkunku suffered injuries, and Christian Pulisic was also sidelined, leaving Milan with limited attacking options and pushing Gimenez into the starting lineup in a 3-5-2 formation under Massimiliano Allegri.
As the main attacking figures start to recover and return, competition for attacking slots becomes tougher:
- Rafael Leao has regained fitness and is returning to the starting XI.
- Christopher Nkunku is also close to full match readiness post-injury.
- Christian Pulisic is expected to recover soon and rejoin the competition for a place up front.
Gimenez’s window to establish himself as a starter may close rapidly as these established names reclaim their spots.
Key Data and Performance Snapshot
A look at some numbers details Gimenez’s challenge:
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Serie A Goals | 0 |
| Starts | 8 of last 9 matches |
| Minutes Played | Over 10 hours total |
| Transfer Fee | Up to €35 million |
Given these statistics, the expectations for breakthrough performances are immense.
What Lies Ahead for Gimenez
The coming two months—or potentially eight critical games—will determine not only Gimenez’s short-term future at San Siro but also his longer-term prospects in European football. Failing to score could see the Mexican international sidelined or sold, with Milan unlikely to continue with a striker unable to deliver goals at a club competing for domestic and continental honors.
Observers and fans will be following closely, as AC Milan’s patience is visibly running short and replacement options are becoming available. With the Serie A season entering a crucial phase and the added pressure of cup competitions, Gimenez’s immediate trajectory at Milan will be defined in the weeks ahead.
