Santiago Giménez has become one of the most exciting strikers in world football. His journey from Argentina to Mexico, then to Europe, has been nothing short of inspiring. Now, in 2025, as a key player for AC Milan, his rise continues. His technical ability, goal-scoring instincts, and relentless work ethic make him a perfect fit for one of Italy’s biggest clubs.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Santiago Giménez was born on April 18, 2001, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. His father, Christian Giménez, was a well-respected footballer who played for several clubs in Mexico. Because of his father’s career, Santiago moved to Mexico at a young age.

He developed his skills in the youth academy of Cruz Azul, one of Mexico’s most historic clubs. From an early age, he showed intelligence on the pitch, great movement, and an eye for goal. His ability to read the game made him stand out among his peers.

Breaking Through at Cruz Azul

Santiago Giménez made his professional debut for Cruz Azul in 2017 at just 16 years old. However, his real breakthrough came in 2020. That year, he established himself as a key player, showcasing his finishing ability and composure under pressure.

He played a crucial role in Cruz Azul’s 2021 Liga MX title-winning season. The club had gone over 23 years without a league title, but with Giménez leading the attack, they finally lifted the trophy. His performances caught the attention of European scouts, and soon, a big move was on the horizon.

European Move: Feyenoord’s New Star

In the summer of 2022, Giménez made the leap to Europe, signing with Feyenoord in the Dutch Eredivisie. It was a perfect move for his development. The Netherlands has a strong reputation for nurturing attacking talent, and Giménez thrived in his new environment.

During the 2022-23 season, he adapted quickly to European football. He became Feyenoord’s top scorer, helping them win the Eredivisie title. His physicality, technical skills, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the league’s best strikers.

His performances didn’t go unnoticed. Bigger clubs started watching him closely, knowing it was only a matter of time before he moved to a top-five European league.

International Career with Mexico

Despite being born in Argentina, Santiago Giménez chose to represent Mexico at the international level. He made his debut for the Mexican national team in 2021 and quickly became a regular.

At the 2023 Gold Cup, he played a decisive role. In the final against Panama, he scored the winning goal in the last minutes, securing the title for Mexico. His ability to perform under pressure made him a fan favorite.

He continued to be a key player in World Cup qualifying matches, solidifying his place as Mexico’s future number nine.

The Move to AC Milan in 2025

By 2025, it was clear that Giménez was ready for the next step in his career. AC Milan, one of Italy’s biggest clubs, signed him to lead their attack. His move to Serie A marked a new challenge, but he was more than prepared.

Italian football is known for its strong defenses, and playing in Serie A would test his skills like never before. However, Giménez adapted quickly. His movement off the ball, strength in duels, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders.

At AC Milan, he formed a great partnership with the team’s creative midfielders. Whether playing as a lone striker or alongside another forward, he proved his versatility. His performances in the Champions League further cemented his status as a top striker in Europe.

Playing Style and Strengths

Giménez is a complete striker. He combines physical strength, technical ability, and intelligent movement. These qualities make him dangerous in and around the penalty area.

• Finishing: He is a clinical finisher, capable of scoring with both feet and his head.

• Positioning: His ability to find space in the box makes him a constant threat.

• Work Rate: He presses defenders and tracks back when needed, making him a valuable team player.

• Hold-Up Play: He can shield the ball well, allowing teammates to join the attack.

His ability to score in different ways—long-range shots, tap-ins, headers—makes him unpredictable. Defenders never know what to expect.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Santiago Giménez is already one of the best Mexican strikers of his generation. His move to AC Milan shows his ambition, and he has the potential to become one of the top forwards in European football.

If he continues his current trajectory, he could go down as one of Mexico’s greatest strikers. His story—from Cruz Azul to Feyenoord, and now AC Milan—proves that hard work and determination pay off.

For Milan, he could be the striker they’ve been searching for. If he delivers trophies and continues scoring at a high rate, he could become a club legend.

Conclusion

Santiago Giménez’s journey is far from over. He has already achieved a lot, but his best years are still ahead. With his talent, work ethic, and hunger for success, he has everything needed to dominate European football for years to come.

His move to AC Milan in 2025 is just another step in his remarkable career. Fans of both Milan and Mexico can expect big things from this rising star.

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