Mexico and the USMNT are set to face off Sunday evening in the highly anticipated final of the 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup at NRG Stadium. With emotions running high, star striker Santiago Gimenez added fuel to the fire by delivering a bold message to his AC Milan teammates Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah ahead of the clash.
Speaking at a press conference Saturday, Gimenez didn’t hold back when asked about his expectations for the final: “I’m really looking forward to it, because in the end, it’s the North American clasico, and the last few games against the United States have been really tough.”
The Feyenoord product then took a playful jab at his Milan teammates. “Also, because I have Pulisic and Musah in the locker room, so I want to go and make fun of them a little,” Gimenez added, alluding to the bragging rights that would come once he returns to Italy.
Gimenez also reflected on the importance of the rivalry, underscoring the weight it carries regardless of the stage: “As I said before, it’s the North American clasico, and it’s not just today, it’s always been. I think the rivalry with the United States in football has always been there, and it’s a wonderful thing, it’s part of football. Every national team, every club has its clasico, its rival to beat. I think our rival to beat is the United States, and their rival to beat it’s us.”
Although Pulisic and Musah were not called up for the Gold Cup as part of the coaching staff’s decision, Gimenez remains fully focused on helping Mexico lift the trophy—and plans to let his Milan teammates hear about it if they do.
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USMNT vs Mexico: Projected lineups for the 2025 Gold Cup final
Gimenez dismisses transfer rumors
Recent reports suggested Gimenez could be on the move from Milan, potentially in a swap deal involving AS Roma striker Artem Dovbyk. But the 23-year-old was quick to shut down any speculation.: “I feel at home, I’m living a dream. I thank God for giving me the chance to be at such a big club like Milan.”
Gimenez also addressed his future head-on, making it clear he’s committed to the Rossoneri. “I think a lot of rumors have come out about me leaving, you know, but I’m doing really well there. I’ve spoken with the management, with the coaching staff, and the idea is for me to stay. I’m going to try to show my best version because I don’t want to waste an opportunity like this. Next season, I’m going to give everything I have to show my best self—especially with the World Cup at home coming up,” Gimenez concluded.
