Giménez Out of Action on Debut: A Cold Shower
Huge build-up, heavy media promotion, countless interviews given to Mexican TV channels and newspapers — and yet Santiago Giménez did not play a single minute in the World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa, which ended 2-0 in favour of the Central American side. A debut effectively wiped out for the AC Milan striker, who in the weeks leading up to the tournament had flooded social media feeds with advertising campaigns, photo shoots and endless public statements.
The contrast between the media visibility built around the Mexican forward and his complete absence from the pitch did not go unnoticed. Those who hoped to see him shine on one of football’s grandest stages were left disappointed.
What to Expect in the Coming Matches
The tournament has only just begun and Giménez will have further opportunities to make his mark. However, the opening signs are not encouraging: a striker who arrives at a major international event with such intense media preparation should ideally back it up on the pitch.
For AC Milan, the picture is twofold. If the centre-forward, born in 2001 and brought to the Rossoneri from Feyenoord during the last transfer window, were to rediscover his scoring touch and self-confidence during the tournament, the entire Milan organisation would benefit — either through added value in the squad if he stays, or through a significant sell-on fee if a transfer were to materialise. A strong World Cup from Santiago Giménez represents, in either scenario, a genuine opportunity for the club.
The Question of Self-Belief
Beyond tactical and market considerations, the deeper issue concerns the striker’s mental resilience. A modern forward cannot do without the ability to handle pressure, maintain consistent performances and stand out in key moments — without relying solely on off-pitch visibility.
Giménez has the quality to impose himself at the highest level — he proved it on multiple occasions at Feyenoord — and the World Cup could be the ideal launchpad for a revival that Rossoneri supporters are eagerly awaiting. The hope is that in the coming games the Mexican striker can finally express himself with goals and standout performances, rediscovering the brilliance that had made him one of the most talked-about attackers in Europe.
