Milan fans were left holding their breath after the club’s 2-2 draw against Fiorentina, a match that saw both Tammy Abraham and Santiago Gimenez withdrawn due to injury.
Milan fans were left holding their breath after the club’s 2-2 draw against Fiorentina, a match that saw both Tammy Abraham and Santiago Gimenez withdrawn due to injury. While the early signs were worrying, particularly for Milan’s winter signing from Feyenoord, the club has since received updates that provide both relief and lingering concern.
The incident unfolded late in the second half. Tammy Abraham, who had started the game, was replaced ten minutes after the break due to what initially appeared to be a troubling knock to the knee. But the real alarm sounded minutes later, when Santiago Gimenez collided with goalkeeper David De Gea, taking a heavy fall on his left side and leaving the pitch visibly in pain.
At the time, the Mexican striker appeared to be struggling to breathe, and many feared the worst — possibly fractured ribs or muscle damage. He had only been on the pitch for 25 minutes. It was the latest frustration in what has been an up-and-down start to life at San Siro for the 23-year-old CONCACAF Nations League winner.
What is Gimenez’s injury situation?
Thankfully, immediate reports ruled out any serious injury for Abraham. “The knock was only a knock,” reported Sky Italia‘s Gianluca Di Marzio, adding that “the medical staff has cleared him to return to training immediately.” The Englishman’s condition is not considered a concern, and he is expected to be available without limitations.
But the situation for Gimenez is less clear-cut. According to Peppe Di Stefano of Sky Italia, “the player is still feeling a bit of pain,” though “instrumental tests did not reveal any injuries.” The scans ruled out rib fractures or muscular lesions, confirming instead a bruise to the ribcage and abdominal muscles.
Despite the absence of structural damage, the player did not train with the squad this week, and the club is taking a day-by-day approach to his recovery. Milan is hopeful, but cautious. Tuttomercatoweb adds: “Gimenez is experiencing some discomfort but has a chance to be available for Friday’s game versus Udinese as his physical problem isn’t worrisome.” Whether he starts or not will depend on his progress in training over the next two days.
Abraham and Jovic to step up again?
The timing of Gimenez’s injury may not have been devastating in tactical terms. Tammy Abraham and Luka Jovic have stepped up with important goals in recent matches, reinforcing Sergio Conceicao’s attacking depth. Against Fiorentina, both scored, turning a reserve strike force into key contributors when the team needed it most.
Still, for Milan to truly challenge on multiple fronts, they need their winter top signing to fire on all cylinders. With the Udinese match set for Friday night at the Stadio Friuli, all eyes will be on the team sheet — and whether Santiago Gimenez is fit enough to return. Until then, the Rossoneri can only wait and hope.