Minute 69 of Napoli-Milan, the score is 2-0, and it’s a hot 30 March 2025. The Azzurri want to keep up their title-chase momentum in the duel against Inter, while the Rossoneri risk being eliminated from all UEFA competitions after a season marked by two managers and many disappointments. Santiago Gimenez has a chance to reduce the deficit from the penalty spot. The Mexican steps up… and misses, Meret saves the penalty easily.
The ghost of Napoli:
He was already going through a difficult moment, and missing that penalty only made it worse. Gimenez has a sort of credit with the Maradona Stadium and, more broadly, with the Milan world. Tonight could be the perfect opportunity to kill two birds with one stone.
Clearly, for Massimiliano Allegri, number 7 is a weapon to be used during the game, giving the possibility from the first minute to Niclas Fullkrug and Christopher Nkunku (to everyone’s surprise). With limited minutes, it will be hard for him to make an impact, but what comes across from this Santiago is… something different.
All smoke and no fire?
On Easter Monday, the day of barbecues for most of the population blessed by the sun (thankfully!), the metaphor fits perfectly. The hope is that Gimenez hasn’t made statements that will amount to nothing.
The Mexican travels to Naples to score, reclaim his form, and continue dreaming of a home World Cup with his national team. The supporters’ energy at the Rossoneri training centre seems to have done him good, judging by his goal in training like a real striker.
This Santi moves well, communicates well, and gives the impression of being able to make a difference. For himself and for the team. So, if a penalty should happen at this very stadium… go ahead, Gimenez, take the ball and smash it into the net. To close the past and open a new future. This was reported by Milan Press.
