Reports on Wednesday confirmed that Santiago Jimenez will undergo surgery on a recurring ankle problem in the coming days, meaning he will be sidelined for several weeks and could complicate Milan’s plans for the January transfer window.
What Jimenez’s surgery means for Milan and Fulkrug
The Mexico international has not played for Milan since Milan’s 1-1 draw with Atalanta on October 28. He has been battling an ankle problem, which according to La Gazzetta dello Sport is a bone problem rather than a ligament or cartilage problem.
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“Gazzetta dello Sport” and Sky Sports Italia confirmed that Gimenez has now decided to undergo surgery to try to solve the ankle problem.
MILAN, ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez celebrates after scoring a goal during the Coppa Italia Round of 16 match against Lecce, USA, at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on September 23, 2025 in Milan, Italy, giving his team a 1-0 lead. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)
Surgery is likely to take place in the coming days, but it remains to be seen how long the 24-year-old will be sidelined. Gazzetta dello Sport suggested a period of six weeks to two months, while Sky claimed “at least” two months.
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For Milan, this situation will only increase their need for a new striker during the January transfer window. As it stands, Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, Christopher Nkunku and Ruben Loftus-Cheek are the only options available in Massimiliano Allegri’s 3-5-2 formation, which has also been plagued by injuries and fitness issues this season.
Reports earlier this week suggested that Milan were expected to complete a loan deal for Germany international Niklas Volkrug from West Ham United in January, which was seen as a temporary solution to their forward problems ahead of the summer transfer window.
West Ham United’s Niklas Forkrug during the Premier League match between Leicester City and West Ham United at the King Power Stadium on December 3, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantlin/Getty Images)
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However, for Jimenez, a move away from Milan now seems almost impossible given that he is likely to be out for several months. Reports on Wednesday said he will return in February or March with the aim of being fully fit to be in top form for the World Cup in the summer.