In a definitive resolution to weeks of intense transfer speculation, Santi Giménez has confirmed his commitment to remaining at AC Milan for the 2025-26 season. The Mexican striker’s future at San Siro had been the subject of considerable uncertainty, with persistent rumors linking him to a potential swap deal with AS Roma involving Artem Dovbyk. However, his agent’s recent statements have put an end to the speculation, solidifying his position within Milan’s attacking setup.
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Agent Confirms Milan Commitment
The most significant development in resolving Giménez’s future came through a statement from his agent, Rafaela Pimenta, who categorically confirmed that the striker wants to stay at AC Milan and will remain with the Rossoneri. This declaration effectively ended weeks of uncertainty surrounding his potential departure from the Italian giants.
| Transfer Status | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Position | Staying at Milan |
| Agent Confirmation | Rafaela Pimenta confirmed commitment |
| Contract Duration | Until June 30, 2029 |
| Shirt Number | #7 (inherited from Morata) |
| Transfer Value | €32 million (original fee) |
The confirmation from Pimenta carries significant weight, as she represents some of football’s biggest names and has a reputation for decisive communication regarding her clients’ career decisions.
The Roma Swap Deal That Never Was
Throughout late August and early September, AC Milan had been actively exploring a potential swap deal with AS Roma that would have seen Santi Giménez move to the capital in exchange for Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk. The proposition gained considerable momentum when Milan director Igli Tare publicly acknowledged the club’s interest in such an arrangement.
“We are evaluating a swap between Dovbyk and Santi Gimenez, let’s see after the match,” Tare stated. “If possible, we will go ahead with the swap… otherwise, we will stay with the current team.” However, AS Roma sporting director Ricky Massara quickly dismissed the speculation, stating that “the swap deal between Dovbyk and Giménez never took off.”
Why the Swap Made Strategic Sense
From a tactical perspective, the potential exchange would have addressed specific needs for both clubs. Milan had been seeking a more traditional center-forward to complement their attacking system, while Roma could have benefited from Giménez’s mobility and pace in their offensive third.
| Potential Swap Details | Milan Gains | Roma Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Player Exchange | Artem Dovbyk | Santiago Giménez |
| Playing Style | Traditional #9 | Mobile Forward |
| Age Factor | 27 years old | 24 years old |
| Market Value | Similar valuations | Long-term investment |
Milan’s Attacking Restructure
Santi Giménez’s decision to remain at Milan comes at a crucial time for the club’s attacking configuration. The Rossoneri have undergone significant changes in their forward line, with the departure of Álvaro Morata to Galatasaray and the arrival of Christopher Nkunku creating new dynamics in the attacking third.
Under Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical system, Giménez has found himself adapting to new positional requirements and competing for starting positions with other quality forwards. His versatility and goal-scoring instinct make him a valuable asset in Milan’s pursuit of domestic and European success.
Early Season Performance and Integration
Since joining Milan in February 2025 for €32 million from Feyenoord, Santi Giménez has shown flashes of the quality that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after strikers. His early performances in the Rossoneri shirt have demonstrated his ability to adapt to Serie A’s tactical demands.
Statistical Overview at Milan
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Serie A | 15 matches | 8 goals | 3 assists |
| Champions League | 6 matches | 6 goals | 2 assists |
| Coppa Italia | 3 matches | 2 goals | 1 assist |
| Total | 24 matches | 16 goals | 6 assists |
His Champions League performance has been particularly impressive, breaking the previous record for most goals scored by a Mexican in a single Champions League season, surpassing the five-goal tallies previously held by Hugo Sánchez and Javier Hernández.
The Mexican Connection at San Siro
Giménez’s presence at Milan represents a historic milestone as the first Mexican player in the club’s 125-year history. Despite being born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he has proudly represented Mexico at international level and has become a symbol of Mexican football excellence in European competition.
His journey to Milan began at Cruz Azul, where he developed his skills and established himself as one of Mexico’s premier attacking talents. His subsequent success at Feyenoord, where he scored 65 goals in 105 appearances across two and a half seasons, caught Milan’s attention and led to his €32 million transfer.
Personal Motivation and Club Ambitions
The striker’s decision to remain at Milan reflects both his personal ambitions and his belief in the club’s project under Allegri. Having inherited the prestigious number 7 shirt from Morata, Giménez has embraced the responsibility that comes with representing one of football’s most storied institutions.
His commitment aligns with Milan’s broader objectives of returning to the summit of European football. The club’s investment in young, talented players like Giménez demonstrates their long-term vision for sustainable success.
Tactical Role Under Allegri
Under Massimiliano Allegri’s tactical framework, Giménez has been deployed in various attacking roles, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. His ability to operate as both a traditional center-forward and a more mobile attacking option provides Allegri with tactical flexibility in different match situations.
The Mexican’s physical attributes, combined with his technical skills and goal-scoring instinct, make him particularly effective in Serie A’s demanding environment. His left-footed finishing and ability to create space in tight areas have already proven valuable assets for Milan.
Future Prospects and Expectations
With his future at Milan now secured, Santi Giménez can focus entirely on his on-field contributions and personal development. The remainder of the 2025-26 season presents opportunities for him to establish himself as a key figure in Milan’s attacking plans and potentially compete for major honors.
His contract, running until June 30, 2029, provides stability for both player and club, allowing for long-term planning and development. This security should enable Giménez to reach his full potential in the famous red and black jersey.
Impact on Milan’s Season
Retaining Giménez significantly strengthens Milan’s attacking options for the remainder of the campaign. His combination with other forwards like Nkunku creates multiple tactical possibilities for Allegri, while his Champions League experience adds depth to their European ambitions.
The resolution of his transfer situation also provides clarity for team planning and allows the technical staff to focus on tactical preparation rather than squad uncertainty.
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FAQs
Why did Santi Giménez decide to stay at AC Milan?
Giménez’s agent Rafaela Pimenta confirmed that the player wants to remain at Milan and is committed to the club’s project under Massimiliano Allegri.
Was the swap deal with AS Roma ever close to completion?
Despite public interest from Milan director Igli Tare, Roma’s sporting director Ricky Massara stated that the swap deal with Artem Dovbyk “never took off.”
How has Giménez performed since joining Milan?
In 24 appearances across all competitions, Giménez has scored 16 goals and provided 6 assists, including a record-breaking 6 Champions League goals.
What shirt number does Santi Giménez wear at Milan?
Giménez wears the number 7 shirt, which he inherited after Álvaro Morata’s departure to Galatasaray.
How long is Giménez’s contract with AC Milan?
Santi Giménez signed a contract with AC Milan that runs until June 30, 2029, providing long-term security for both player and club.
