Gimenez given last chance for Milan against Udinese

Multiple outlets in Italy suggest that Santiago Gimenez will be given one last chance to impress for Milan when they take on Udinese in Serie A on Saturday evening, but with Rafael Leao nearing a return to fitness, the Mexican’s place in the starting line-up could be at risk in the absence of an impressive performance.

Gimenez has struggled to find the back of the net for the Rossoneri this season. He remains goalless after four appearances across all competitions, after providing five goals and two assists from 14 appearances in Serie A after his big-money move from Feyenoord midway through last season.

The Mexico international is expected to be among Massimiliano Allegri’s starters for the Serie A clash between Udinese and Milan on Saturday, likely alongside Christian Pulisic, but with other attackers targeting a place in the side, Gimenez could be at risk of missing out in the near future.

MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 14: Santiago Gimenez is challenged by Lewis Ferguson of Bologna during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 14, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Rafael Leao remains unavailable, but according to Allegri, is pushing to be back in time to face Napoli in Serie A next weekend.

Summer signing Christopher Nkunku, who came in at a cost of €43m during the summer transfer window, is also targeting a spot in the starting line-up.

As per La Gazzetta dello Sport and Calciomercato.com, if Gimenez is not able to turn his form in front of goal around, he is at risk of dropping down to third or fourth in the pecking order of Rossoneri forwards.

MILAN, ITALY – AUGUST 17: Rafael Leao celebrates after scoring the opening goal during the Coppa Italia match between AC Milan and SSC Bari at Stadio San Siro on August 17, 2025 in San Siro, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

That is largely because Leao is expected to be a guaranteed starter when fit and available. Allegri also sees the Portugal international, as well as Christian Pulisic, playing in more central roles in a 3-5-2, rather than their previous positions out on the wing.

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