The transfer saga of Mexican forward Santi Gimenez to AC Milan has finally reached its conclusion, with the official announcement coming on Monday. The move, which had been telegraphed by Gimenez's meeting with Milan legend and senior adviser Zlatan Ibrahimovic, represents a significant step up for the 23-year-old striker.
The Rossoneri reportedly paid over $35 million to secure Gimenez's services from Feyenoord, where he had established himself as a prolific scorer with 45 goals in 73 league appearances. His European pedigree is particularly impressive, having netted five goals in five matches this season, including strikes against Bayern Munich and Lille, adding to his previous tally of seven goals across Champions League and Europa League competitions.
"We followed Gimenez for many months," Ibrahimovic told DAZN. "We also tried in the summer, but it was a different situation. He's ready. I saw him live, and he's fired up. He's really eager to start."
For Gimenez, who grew up watching his father play over 250 matches for Cruz Azul, the move to Milan represents both a challenge and an opportunity. He joins a squad that already features USMNT stars Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah, potentially forming what could be described as a CONCACAF super team at the San Siro.
"I can promise that I will do everything possible. I don't believe in individualism but in teamwork," Gimenez stated during his introductory press conference. "This is a competitive team that can win a lot. I don't promise a certain number of goals, but I will give my best."
The striker's arrival at Milan could also have significant implications for the Mexican national team. Despite his club success, Gimenez has struggled to replicate his scoring form internationally, managing just four goals in 32 appearances for El Tri. However, working alongside creative talents like Pulisic and Rafael Leao could help him develop the consistency needed to cement his position as Mexico's starting striker ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
As the first Mexican player to don the famous red and black stripes of AC Milan, Gimenez understands the significance of his role. "Every player has the responsibility of carrying the national flag onto the pitch," he reflected. "It's a great honor for me, and I want to leave my mark. We are a very united country in Mexico, and today at Milan, I'll have all of Mexico by my side."
The transfer represents more than just a club change for Gimenez. With Mexico currently lacking players regularly competing in Europe's top five leagues, his move to Serie A could be transformative for both his personal development and his national team prospects. Under the watchful eye of Ibrahimovic and surrounded by world-class talent, Gimenez appears poised to take the next step in his promising career.
