Alex Jimenez hasn’t ruled out a return to AC Milan despite a late-season dispute over the No.2 shirt and a leaked message about Allegri. For bettors: Bournemouth look likelier to keep him in the short term, so back Jimenez for regular starts/appearances rather than an immediate summer move back to Milan — odds on a January transfer should lengthen.
Alex Jimenez Leaves Door Open for AC Milan Return After Shirt-Number Snub
Alex Jimenez, now a Bournemouth full-back, has admitted he could one day return to AC Milan despite a fractious end to his time at San Siro. The Spaniard — who arrived on loan in 2023, made the move permanent in 2024 and was sold to Bournemouth in summer 2025 — says a dispute over the No.2 shirt and a loss of responsibility contributed to his exit.
Shirt number fallout and frustration
Jimenez revealed he asked to wear the traditional No.2 ahead of the 2025–26 campaign but was turned down and told he was “too immature.” He says that decision affected his concentration and contributed to a dip in professionalism late in his Milan spell. The episode, he admits, was one of several factors that made the final months uncomfortable.
Leaked message and apology to Allegri
A screenshot of a private message that appeared to label manager Massimiliano Allegri a “sh** coach” was leaked online. Jimenez called the incident “rubbish,” explained he sent the message in the heat of the moment after not playing, and has said he apologised from day one. Allegri accepted the apology, Jimenez confirmed, and he has moved on professionally.
Playing now, open to the future
Despite the controversy, Jimenez stresses he is focused on Bournemouth, enjoys life in the Premier League and appreciates what Milan gave him. He says he will “never close the doors” on a club that helped his career, leaving a potential future return possible but not imminent.
Transfer and betting implications
From a sporting and transfer-market perspective, the combination of public friction and a quick sale suggests Milan may be cautious about pursuing him immediately.
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For bettors, that points to a higher probability of Jimenez remaining at Bournemouth in the near term and continuing to start regularly — markets on a swift Milan reunion should be treated as longer shots.
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