News

Who will have a bigger impact at AC Milan: Gimenez or Felix?

Discover which of the two signings, Santiago Gimenez or Joao Felix, will be key for AC Milan in the Italian Serie A.

By Angel Carrillo Hernández

Santiago Gimenez and Joao Felix | Photos: @acmilan and @ChelseaFC
Santiago Gimenez and Joao Felix | Photos: @acmilan and @ChelseaFC
Síguenos enSíguenos en Google News

The recent arrival of Santiago Gimenez and Joao Felix at AC Milan has sparked debate among fans and experts about which forward will have a greater impact on the Rossoneri. Both players, with impressive careers in Europe, bring different profiles that could significantly influence the team's attacking performance.

Santiago Gimenez's career and statistics

Santiago Gimenez, a 23-year-old Mexican forward, began his professional career at Cruz Azul, where he played a crucial role in winning the league title in 2021, ending the club’s 23-year drought. In 2022, he moved to Feyenoord in the Netherlands, where he scored 65 goals in 105 matches over two seasons, helping the team win the Eredivisie, KNVB Cup, and Johan Cruyff Shield.

His outstanding performance in Dutch football established him as one of Europe's most promising strikers, leading AC Milan to sign him for €32 million in February 2025.

Joao Felix's career and statistics

Joao Felix, a 25-year-old Portuguese forward, emerged as one of Europe's brightest prospects after his 2018-2019 season with Benfica, scoring 15 goals in 26 league matches. This success earned him a €126 million transfer to Atletico Madrid in 2019.

During his time at Atletico Madrid, Felix played 131 matches, scoring 33 goals and providing 16 assists, also winning LaLiga in the 2020-2021 season. However, his stint at the Spanish club was marked by inconsistencies, including loan spells at Chelsea and Barcelona, where he had mixed performances.

In February 2025, AC Milan secured his loan move from Chelsea until the end of the season, hoping that the Portuguese forward can revitalize his career in Serie A.

Santiago Gimenez's playing style

Gimenez is a traditional center forward, known for his positional awareness in the box and lethal finishing. He excels in aerial duels, physical strength, and finishing with both feet. His work ethic and ability to press defenders make him a complete striker who fits well in systems that require a classic "number nine."

Joao Felix's playing style

Felix is a versatile forward who can play as a second striker, attacking midfielder, or winger. His game is defined by technical skill, vision, and dribbling ability in tight spaces. Although not a prolific goal scorer, he brings creativity and can destabilize defenses by creating opportunities for himself and his teammates.

Adaptability to Serie A

Serie A is known for its tactical discipline and strong defensive structures, which can pose a challenge for attacking players trying to make an impact.

Santiago Gimenez's adaptation

With his physical and direct style, Gimenez is well-suited for Italian football. His experience in Dutch football, a league that also values tactical awareness, has provided him with a solid foundation to handle Serie A's demands. Additionally, his ability to play with his back to goal and participate in build-up play could prove valuable in a league where defenses tend to be compact.

Joao Felix's adaptation

Felix has played in top leagues such as LaLiga and the Premier League, but his inconsistent performances raise questions about his adaptation. His style, based on creativity and dribbling, might face challenges in Serie A, where defensive structures are highly disciplined. However, if he finds his best form, his talent could add a different dimension to Milan’s attack.

Potential impact at AC Milan

Each player's contribution to AC Milan will depend on various factors, including the tactics used by coach Sergio Conceicao and their chemistry with teammates.

Santiago Gimenez's impact

Gimenez has the potential to become Milan's main attacking reference. His goal-scoring ability and presence in the box provide a reliable option up front. Additionally, his youth and hunger for success could bring energy and determination to the Rossoneri squad.

Joao Felix's impact

If Felix adapts well and regains top form, he could provide Milan with a versatile and creative attacking option. His ability to play multiple positions in attack and create chances could complement players like Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic, adding unpredictability to Milan's offense.

What you need to know about Santiago Gimenez and Joao Felix at AC Milan

  • Santiago Gimenez: A 23-year-old Mexican forward, signed by AC Milan in February 2025 for €32 million. Known for his goal-scoring instinct and physicality.
  • Joao Felix: A 25-year-old Portuguese forward, on loan from Chelsea until the end of the 2024-2025 season. Recognized for his technical ability and attacking versatility.
  • Playing styles: Gimenez is a classic "number nine" with physical strength and finishing ability, while Felix brings creativity and can play in multiple attacking roles.

More news