Santiago Giménez’s journey to the top of European football hasn’t been easy. At 24, the Mexican striker has finally made it to the big leagues after joining Milan from Feyenoord in January. But his path was paved with obstacles that could have derailed his career.
Giménez opened up to Sports Illustrated about a life-changing moment when he was 17. He suffered a blood clot in his arm that threatened to end his football career. “I asked my dad, ‘Why me?’ He said, ‘I don’t have the answer, but God does.’ He told me to have faith.” That night, Giménez had a spiritual experience in the shower. “I turned off the lights, sat in the bathtub, and prayed for 30 minutes. I felt a connection with God. It was tough, but I sensed His presence.”
Giménez believes his faith helped him recover and reignite his passion for football. “I just ask God to guide my spirit. He lets me be the fighter I am and the kid who used to have fun. It’s all about my passion for football. When you do things with passion, they go well.”
Breaking into the Starting Lineup
Giménez joined Milan for €32 million and has scored four goals and provided two assists in 15 games. Initially, he was a regular starter, but Tammy Abraham soon took his place. This sparked rumors of a rift between Giménez and coach Sérgio Conceição.
Despite the setback, Giménez remains committed to his craft. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and faith in overcoming adversity.