It's a welcome development for Hong Myung-bo's team ahead of the World Cup. Santiago Giménez (25, AC Milan), once regarded as a core of Mexico's attack, has been slow to come alive.
Italian outlet "Milan Report" on the 23rd (KST) assessed, "Santiago Giménez's season this year has, in fact, fallen short of expectations." A rebound was expected after he settled in, but the result was the exact opposite.
Giménez is a poacher-type striker with nimble movement and a powerful left-footed shot. He is excellent at finding scoring opportunities by moving in and out of the box, and as he has gained experience he has added movements dropping to the flanks, getting involved in attacking build-up. He does not just finish simply; he also has the ability to create space for himself using his physicality and strength. His work rate, forward pressing and occasional linking play are also strengths.
However, his first touch and the refinement of his technical skills are somewhat lacking. His dribbling and speed are not top-class, and there are limits to playing as a target man or with his back to goal. Overall, he is a poacher-type striker whose scoring ability is central, with some added versatility.
It went wrong from the start. He missed about five months after undergoing surgery for an ankle injury midseason. There was no turnaround after his return. His performance both before and after the injury fell short of expectations. In particular, in the league he has gone completely scoreless since his multi-goal game against Bologna FC in May last year.
The one goal he scored was in a cup competition. He remains silent in the league. The recent matches have been the same. He was brought on as a substitute in the Hellas Verona match on the 19th but did not even register a shot. His presence has disappeared to that extent.
The bench's view is cold as well. Manager Massimiliano Allegri is also reported to be dissatisfied. Opportunities are decreasing, and time is limited. Only five league matches remain.
The end of this season is a turning point. The outlet pointed out, "The remaining matches for Giménez are not just a schedule. His standing at the club and whether he will go to the World Cup are at stake." It added, "His physical condition can be understood, but the attitude and will he must show on the pitch are separate."
If the situation continues, it is dangerous. He could fall behind not only in his future at AC Milan but also in competition for the national team.
It could also affect the composition of the Mexico national team. Giménez is a resource who, along with Raúl Giménez, takes the frontmost positions. However, Raúl Giménez is also entering his mid-30s, so maintaining consistent condition is not easy.
From Korea's perspective, he is clearly a variable. Giménez showed threatening movement in a friendly in September last year and was considered the top player to watch. With his current form, the calculations change.
The opening of the 2026 Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) North and Central America World Cup is 48 days away. Mexico, as a host, is placed in group A of the group stage and will face the Republic of Korea national football team, the South Africa national football team, and the Czech Republic national football team.
The longer the main striker's silence continues, the more it becomes an opportunity for Korea.
[OSEN]