CM: Gimenez pushing to return within six weeks – the strong signs regarding his Milan future

Santiago Gimenez is continuing his recovery from ankle surgery, with the hopes of playing a part in AC Milan’s season finale.

As Calciomercato.com recall, Gimenez underwent ankle surgery on December 18 to fix an issue that was preventing him from playing his best, at least in his words. His expected recovery time was months rather than weeks, so Milan moved to secure the signing of Niclas Füllkrug.

However in an interview with ESPN Mexico, the former Feyenoord man made a declaration about his condition: “My ankle is fixed, get ready!” He then went on to express thanks to Milan for their support of him.

When he will return

Santiago Gimenez is desperate to return to prove his worth to the Rossoneri. Expectations for the striker were high, partly because of the €30m paid a year ago, and partly because of the passion the Mexican has always expressed for Milan.

This season, El Bebote has scored just once against Lecce in the Coppa Italia, and an ankle injury has definitively compromised an already challenging campaign. His return is scheduled for April, but the striker expects to return earlier, around the first half of March.

He’s ready to fight for his spot after having been frequently used by Allegri prior to his injury. It will not be easy though with the likes of Rafael Leao, Christopher Nkunku, Christian Pulisic and Füllkrug all in the running for two spots.

Beyond 2025-26

It’s been a rollercoaster ride of contrasting emotions between Gimenez and Milan: love at first sight, a thrilling first phase, and then a difficult relationship that seems to be coming to an end.

With Füllkrug in the present and Dusan Vlahovic wanted for next season, it seems that the directors have made two clear choices that seem to be pushing Gimenez towards the exit door.

The plan is to recoup the €30m in the summer, with the hope of a strong season finale and World Cup, where he plays a leading role. Sunderland are still keen on the Mexican, but several German clubs are also ready in the event of a definitive split.