Gimenez: ‘I’m hungrier now and there’s a different atmosphere at Milan’ | OneFootball

Santiago Gimenez insists he has ‘more hunger, more determination, and above all more passion’ now in his first full season with Milan, as Max Allegri brought a ‘different atmosphere.’

The striker was a significant signing in the January transfer window, with €32m plus €3m in add-ons handed over to Feyenoord.

He scored six goals and provided three assists in 19 competitive games, but struggled to live up to those expectations.

Now he is hoping that a full pre-season can finally allow him to feel at one with the squad and their new coach.

Gimenez has new sensations at Milan

MILAN, ITALY – MAY 09: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Bologna at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on May 09, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“I am the same Santiago, but with more hunger, more determination, and above all more passion,” Gimenez told Sky Sport Italia.

“It is difficult when moving in the January transfer window, because you are in a whole new team. But now everything starts from scratch.

“I am really determined and believe in myself as well as the team. We must give our all to achieve our objectives. I won’t make promises, but I’d love to win the Scudetto with Milan.”

Luka Modric is one of the many new arrivals, including Samuele Ricci, Ardon Jashari and Pervis Estupinan.

“Modric won so many trophies, his presence will certainly motivate us.”

MILAN, ITALY – FEBRUARY 05: Santiago Gimenez of AC Milan acknowledges the fans following the Coppa Italia Quarter Final match between AC Milan and AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on February 05, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

The biggest change is on the bench, where Sergio Conceicao has been replaced by veteran Allegri.

“There is a different atmosphere compared to the last few months,” continued Gimenez.

“Allegri is a coach who really unites the squad, he works with great intensity. From the first day of training, I was sure this will be a great season.”

Milan are known to be seeking a new centre-forward, with targets including Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund and Dusan Vlahovic of Milan, so does the Mexico international feel worried at more competition for places?

“No, quite the opposite. The bigger the competition, the more we all improve. I will work hard to score many goals.”