Jimenez feared limited Milan playing time, Nico Paz ‘ready’ for Real Madrid return | OneFootball

Alex Jimenez feared he’d get limited playing time at Milan, so he joined Bournemouth last summer and feels Como star Nico Paz is ‘ready’ to return to Real Madrid.

Spanish full-back Jimenez has recently completed a permanent move to Bournemouth, just six months after joining the Premier League side on loan from Milan.

The 20-year-old has scored one goal and provided one assist in 23 appearances across all competitions this season and is happy with his life on and off the pitch in England.

“Life is much calmer than in Milan or Madrid, and I think that’s helping me stay even more focused on football,” he told Mundo Deportivo.

“My family is living with me, and I have a very peaceful daily life.

“In Italy, [football] it’s a bit slower because football there is much more tactical than in the Premier League. Here it’s much more physical, back and forth, and you have to be very well prepared physically. Given my characteristics, I feel more comfortable, and the Premier League suits me better.”

Jimenez went on to explain why he decided to leave Milan last summer, after making 34 appearances with the Rossoneri.

Jimenez on why he left Milan for Bournemouth

Alex Jimenez of AC Milan in action during the Trofeo Berlusconi match between AC Milan and AC Monza on August 13, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“I think at Milan I wasn’t going to get the minutes I wanted this season, and this opportunity came up,” he said.

“I saw it as a chance, and I think I’m making the most of it.

“I really valued that the coach was Spanish [Andoni Iraola], considering he could help me integrate into the team,” Jimenez continued.

“In the end, changing language and country makes a difference. Also, I’ve always liked watching Premier League matches, and it seemed like a fun team based on what I saw last season.”

During his time at Milan, however, Jimenez had the chance to play alongside one of his role models, Theo Hernandez.

“I’ve always had Dani Carvajal as a reference because I spent many years at Madrid,” said the 20-year-old.

“Also, Alexander-Arnold, Davies and Theo Hernandez, whom I was lucky enough to play alongside at Milan.”

Nico Paz ‘ready’ for Real Madrid return

COMO, ITALY – JANUARY 10: Nico Paz of Como 1907 looks o during the Serie A match between Como 1907 and Bologna FC 1909 at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on January 10, 2026 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Lastly, Jimenez argued that Como star Nico Paz has done enough in Serie A this season to justify a return to Real Madrid next summer.

The Merengues have an option to re-sign the Argentine in 2026 and 2027.

“Yes, he’s ready. He already did very well last season, and in the current campaign, he’s made a further step forward,” Jimenez said.

“I’ve always liked him, and I’d be very happy if he eventually returns to Real Madrid.”