Strong Start at AC Milan...
For director Sergio Conceição, one take was enough to bring to the screen, against Roma in the Coppa Italia, the first film of the new Milan starring Santiago Gimenez and João Félix. San Siro, arguably the ultimate Hollywood-style stage, was already hailing the two stars even before they got into action, during the team announcements and the warm-up rondo among the substitutes. The anticipation was high, and it was rewarded with the standout scene of the goal: an assist from Santi and a delicate chip finish from João. A debut worthy of an Oscar.
Expecting a repeat performance from both of them as starters right away in Empoli might be too much. Santiago Gimenez is still dealing with the lingering effects of the physical issue he picked up in his last game with Feyenoord, and it showed in his bursts of speed—he hasn't yet regained the sharpness of his best form. Plus, Tammy Abraham has made it clear there's no need to rush. For now, the Englishman can take care of things, as he did in the first half against Roma. Meanwhile, João Félix hasn't started a game since January 11 (when he scored twice against Morecambe in the FA Cup with Chelsea), and logic dictates that his integration into the Rossoneri setup should follow a gradual progression. That said, Conceição was the first to be enthralled by his compatriot’s debut—who knows, he might even be tempted to hand him the keys to the team right away. Regardless, even coming off the bench, the two are a terrifying prospect for any opponent. With that much quality, even in just 30 minutes, they can change the course of a match. Soon enough, they’ll both claim the starring roles that await them at Milan.
What should Milan tactics be like now?
Conceição hinted at it in his post-match comments the other night: the Milan he envisions is moving more and more towards the 4-4-2 he frequently used during his years at Porto, with Santi and João leading the line. Though, to be precise, Félix is given the freedom to roam almost as a wildcard playmaker rather than a pure second striker. Fans are already dreaming of a "Fantastic Four" attack, with Pulisic on the right and Rafael Leao on the left, but the Portuguese coach reiterated on Wednesday night that maintaining the team’s balance remains essential. That dream setup might come later, depending on the willingness and sacrifice of the players in certain matches or key moments.
What about Joao Félix?
Milan has made a significant investment in Gimenez, firmly believing he is the ideal center-forward for the present and the years to come. His age (just 23), growth potential (he’s only been playing in Europe for two and a half seasons), and level (sure, he scored in the Netherlands, but his 7 goals in 9 Champions League games suggest this isn’t just about playing in a weaker league) all point to a bright future.
João Félix, however, is only in Milan on loan until June 30. And then? That question has been circulating insistently on social media since the final whistle against Roma. On Wednesday, Milan’s technical director Geoffrey Moncada hinted that keeping him in Rossonero is far from impossible. "We have a good relationship with Chelsea—then it will depend on us and João."
For now, the Portuguese forward has been captivated by San Siro. It had been a long time since he had received such affection from fans—every touch met with murmurs of admiration, every move greeted with awe, and of course, a roaring celebration after his goal against Svilar. A João Félix who falls in love with Milan would be easier to negotiate for and retain in the summer. The club’s management is already working on a potential deal to present to Chelsea if these months go well: another paid loan covering Chelsea’s amortization costs (€8-10 million), followed in 2026 by a purchase option at a much more feasible price for Milan, around €30-35 million. Similar to Morata’s move to Galatasaray.
Time will tell. For now, Milan is enjoying its new duo, which, in Gimenez’s own words to foreign media after the Coppa Italia win, has already turned the team into an equipazo, a powerhouse. Even those who don’t speak Spanish can catch the drift.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
