
Allegri Praises Santiago Giménez’s Vital Role at AC Milan Despite Goal Drought
Mansion Sports – AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has expressed his full support for Mexican striker Santiago Giménez, despite the player’s ongoing goal drought in Serie A this season.
So far, Giménez’s only goal for the Rossoneri has come in the Coppa Italia, but Allegri insists that the 24-year-old’s value to the team extends far beyond scoring statistics.
In Milan’s most recent outing — a goalless draw against Juventus at Allianz Stadium on Sunday night — the team’s four-match winning streak in Serie A came to an end.
The result saw Milan slip to third in the league standings after six matches, despite having briefly held the top spot earlier in the campaign.
Giménez Remains a Key Figure in Milan’s Attack
Santiago Giménez once again led the line for Milan against Juventus, starting the match and featuring for over an hour before being substituted for Rafael Leão.
While the Mexican striker was unable to end his goal drought, Allegri emphasized that his trust in the player remains unwavering.
“Santiago is a fundamental part of this team,” Allegri said after the match. “He gives us structure — the way he links play, holds up the ball, and presses from the front is crucial to our balance. Goals will come naturally, but his contribution goes far beyond what can be measured on paper.”
Allegri’s remarks underline Giménez’s importance in Milan’s tactical system. Even without scoring, his off-the-ball movement, physicality, and pressing have consistently opened up opportunities for teammates to create danger in the final third.
Allegri: “Giménez Didn’t Deserve to Be Substituted”
The Milan boss also praised Giménez’s performance against Juventus, describing it as one of discipline and determination.
He noted that the striker’s work rate and intelligence were essential in helping Milan create offensive momentum.
“Giménez played very well today,” Allegri continued. “He worked hard, created space, and even forced the opponent into fouls that led to dangerous situations. I only substituted him because I wanted to try something different with Leão, but in truth, Santi didn’t deserve to be taken off.”
Since joining Milan from Feyenoord, Giménez has registered seven goals in 27 appearances across all competitions.
Though not a prolific figure statistically, his tactical awareness, defensive work, and ability to adapt to Allegri’s structured playing style have earned him respect within the squad.
Staying at Milan Proves the Right Decision
During the summer transfer window, Giménez was heavily linked with a late move away from Milan. However, he ultimately decided to stay and fight for his place under Allegri — a decision that has since proven rewarding.
Milan have won five of their last six matches across all competitions, with Giménez continuing to play a vital role in the team’s offensive shape.
His decision to remain at the club reflects not only his professional maturity but also his strong sense of commitment.
Giménez has embraced his responsibilities as a team player, focusing on buildup play and defensive pressing as much as goal-scoring.
New Focus with the Mexican National Team
Following his duties with Milan, Giménez is set to join the Mexican national team for their October international fixtures against Colombia and Ecuador.
With Raúl Jiménez sidelined due to injury, Giménez is expected to lead the line for El Tri under head coach Javier Aguirre.
This international break presents a crucial opportunity for the forward to regain his scoring touch and demonstrate his abilities on a larger stage.
Allegri has praised Giménez’s work ethic and mentality, calling him “a fundamental piece” of Milan’s project this season.
With his coach’s backing and a clear sense of purpose, Santiago Giménez now faces the perfect moment to rediscover his sharpness — both for AC Milan and for his national team — as he continues to evolve into one of the most complete strikers of his generation.