A Second Chance at Feyenoord
AC Milan faces Feyenoord again tonight in the second leg of their decisive match at San Siro. With the score tied 1-1 from the first leg, the pressure is on, and the spotlight is firmly on Santiago Gimenez. As La Gazzetta dello Sport reports, both the coach, Sergio Conceicao, and the Milan fans are eagerly anticipating a strong performance from the young striker. Gimenez, who scored a crucial goal against Hellas Verona over the weekend, is expected to bring the same energy and skill to this high-stakes game.
A Promising Start with Milan
Since joining AC Milan, Gimenez has made an immediate impact. He netted a goal in his first league appearance against Empoli, and provided an assist for Joao Felix in his debut against Roma. However, his performance in the first leg against Feyenoord was less stellar, with Beelen and Hancko effectively neutralizing his threat. Despite the setback, Gimenez has shown resilience and a strong desire to prove himself. His former Feyenoord fans, who once celebrated his 65 goals in 105 appearances, have shown him respect, but he is now fully committed to his new club and eager to lead Milan to the next round.
The Investment and Expectations
The investment in Gimenez was significant, with AC Milan paying €28.5 million, potentially rising to €35 million with bonuses. The club, backed by owner Gerry Cardinale and guided by Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Giorgio Furlani, and Geoffrey Moncada, sees Gimenez as a key asset. His goal-scoring record in the Champions League, with seven goals in 10 matches, underscores his potential. Coach Conceicao and Ibrahimovic, who has praised Gimenez as ‘a killer, what we were missing,’ have high expectations, and the striker must continue to demonstrate his value on the pitch.
Redemption and Ambition
For Gimenez, the stakes are high. He is determined to reach the round of 16 for the first time, an achievement he has only witnessed on television. With Milan, he has the opportunity to go even further, and he is not about to let this chance slip away. At just 23 years old, there is immense belief in his ability to improve and establish himself in Serie A. The club’s faith in his talent is evident, and tonight’s match is a crucial moment for him to repay that trust and silence any critics.
Life in Milan
Off the pitch, Gimenez and his wife, Fernanda, are preparing to settle into their new life in Milan. Fernanda, a Mexican model and influencer, has already made friends in the city and posted a photo with her sister and her sister’s boyfriend, showing the couple’s close-knit family. Despite the attention from fans, they remain grounded and are excited to experience life in Milan just as they did in Rotterdam. Their approach to fame is refreshing, and they are committed to maintaining their genuine and approachable nature.
A Night to Remember
Tonight, the San Siro will be electric as AC Milan and Santiago Gimenez aim to secure a place in the next round of the Champions League. The support from the stands, including the cheers of his wife and the anticipation of the fans, will fuel Gimenez’s determination. As La Gazzetta dello Sport aptly puts it, ‘Do it for the Diavolo.’ The stage is set, and all eyes are on the young striker to deliver a performance that will be remembered.
