'It was his best game since I’ve been in charge' - Massimiliano Allegri praises Mexico striker Santiago Gimenez's role in AC Milan’s win over Bologna

Mexico international Santiago Giménez remains without a goal in the 2025-26 Serie A season, extending his drought to five matches after hitting the post on a one-on-one chance against Bologna.

Despite the dry spell, Massimiliano Allegri highlighted the 23-year-old’s overall impact, calling it his strongest outing since joining Milan.

“Santiago ran tirelessly, pressed high, and worked very hard. He missed two good chances, but he reached them because of his effort. I’m very pleased - it was his best game since I’ve been in charge,” Allegri told DAZN.

Cameras caught the coach embracing Giménez after substituting him. Since Allegri's arrival, the striker has started all three games for the Rossoneri.

The victory keeps Milan in the race for qualifying for European competition next season. Allegri admitted the objective remains a return to the Champions League, though he urged caution.

“Our goal is to get back into the Champions League. It’s not easy, and we can’t get carried away, but I think we’re doing very well. Winning while keeping a clean sheet for the second match in a row was important. The team stayed compact in difficult moments, and that’s when we cannot fall apart,” Allegri said. 

AC Milan will visit Udinese next Saturday in Serie A action.