Santiago Jiménez Puts Milan Before a Major Challenge

Reports confirmed that Santiago Jiménez, Milan's striker, will undergo urgent surgery in the coming days to treat a recurring ankle issue, which will keep him off the field for several weeks.

The expected absence of the Mexican player increases pressure on the Italian team as the January winter transfer market approaches, posing a challenge for the coaching staff to find quick offensive solutions.

Jiménez has not participated since Milan's 1-1 draw with Atalanta on October 28 due to a bone problem in the ankle, according to "La Gazzetta dello Sport," and not ligament or cartilage issues. Reports indicate that his absence could range between six weeks and two months, while other sources confirm it may extend beyond two months.

This situation forces Milan to strengthen the attacking line, especially since the current options in Massimiliano Allegri's 3-5-2 formation are limited to Rafael Leão, Christian Pulisic, Christopher Nkunku, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, all of whom have suffered injuries or physical problems during the season.

In this context, reports indicate that the Italian club expects to complete the loan deal for German striker Niclas Füllkrug from West Ham United in January as a temporary solution to cover Jiménez's absence until the next summer transfer window.

As for Jiménez, estimates suggest he will work on regaining full fitness to return to the field between February and March, aiming to be at his best level during the upcoming summer World Cup to ensure he is in peak condition for international competitions.