Santiago Gimenez reflects on injury-hit season and hints at future Cruz Azul return

AC Milan striker Santiago Gimenez has opened up on a frustrating, injury-disrupted season at San Siro while expressing a long-term desire to return to his former club Cruz Azul. The 24-year-old Mexican international made these comments in an interview with Mexican outlet Record Mexico, reflecting on a campaign where early promise was derailed by a significant layoff.

Gimenez revealed that his season began with strong personal and team form, starting Milan's first ten Serie A matches as the club led the league. "I started the season with many expectations, playing the first ten games as a starter while the team was in first place," Gimenez said. He described having "great expectations and a lot of hunger" to achieve seasonal goals before suffering an injury that required surgery and kept him sidelined for four and a half months.

The striker, who joined Milan from Feyenoord in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of approximately €40 million, was seen as a key part of the club's attacking rebuild. His initial impact was positive, but his prolonged absence coincided with a dip in Milan's form, which ultimately saw them fall away from the title race. Gimenez stated he is now focused on his recovery, saying, "Now I am well: I am training again and clearly I am still working to be at 100%."

Looking further ahead, Gimenez hinted at a potential emotional return to Mexico later in his career. He called a move back to Cruz Azul, where he began his professional career before moving to Europe with Feyenoord, an "inner desire." He clarified that such a move would not be imminent, stating, "It will surely happen in many years, I hope, because I like being in Europe and competing at the highest levels, but I would very much like to return to Cruz Azul." He described his time at the Mexican club as "something beautiful, wonderful."

For now, Gimenez's immediate priority will be regaining full fitness and fighting for his place in Stefano Pioli's squad before the season concludes. His return provides a boost to Milan's attacking options as they seek to secure a Champions League spot for next season. The club's management will hope the striker can recapture his early-season form and justify their significant investment, providing a focal point for their attack in the coming years before any potential future departure.