Santiago Gimenez was Milan's big signing in the January transfer window. After scoring three goals in his first matches, the Rossoneri center-forward is now struggling a bit more, both in terms of performances and goal-scoring.
The Mexican is coming off a victory in the Concacaf Nations League with his Mexico, although he finished the final against Panama with a slight ankle issue, which has already been resolved: "Everything is fine, I feel good. I’ll be there on Sunday in Naples. Playing at the Maradona? Maradona doesn’t belong only to the Argentinians, he’s a world heritage. It will be an incredible emotion to play in the stadium that bears his name," he told Corriere della Sera. "But now I want a title with Milan. That’s what I’m here for."
Regarding his first months with the Rossoneri, Gimenez stated:
"They have been very intense. Especially off the pitch. I’ve had to adapt to a new city, a new environment. Now I want to do what I came here for. The goals will come. I’m sure of it. But the important thing is to win, like in the last two matches. Whether it’s Rafa (Leão) or Christian (Pulisic) or another teammate who scores, it’s the same. With Conceição, we’re working hard. We are not happy with our position in the standings. But it’s not over yet. We believe in it. Changes are always a bit complicated. I’m not at my level yet. But I’m growing, I’m learning to know the opponents, the teams. There is great pressure here. And it’s wonderful. I know I can make it. Also thanks to the hand of God."
Faith plays a fundamental role in his life:
"When I was 17, I was diagnosed with thrombosis in my arm," the Mexican explained. "I underwent three surgeries, I was sidelined for six months. At one point, the doctors clearly told me that if the last test didn’t go well, I would have to stop playing football. That’s when I encountered God in my life. I prayed that he wouldn’t put an end to my dream of becoming a footballer. Everything turned out fine..."
Since arriving at Milan, the fans have had high expectations of him, but for Santiago, that’s not a problem—on the contrary:
"It’s an honor. San Siro is indescribable for those who have never been there. I know they expect a lot from me because they are rightly demanding, given the great strikers of the past. Ibra, Kaká, Ronaldinho. At Feyenoord, I scored many goals. It’s time to start scoring them with Milan too. A lot of followers on social media? Social media is valuable, but only if used well. I want to be an example, to show through my story that, with God by your side, anything is possible."
Gimenez also spoke about the race for fourth place and the two-legged Coppa Italia derby against Inter:
"Fourth place possible? Yes. But we must not look at the standings. We only think about winning, game by game. Just like in the Coppa Italia. I can’t wait to play the derby, I’m anxious."
