Jimenez: ‘Quick’ negotiation with Fiorentina, Iraola is the ‘past’ | OneFootball

New Fiorentina signing Álex Jiménez said negotiations over his move from Bournemouth were ‘quick’ and acknowledged Andoni Iraola’s support, but insisted: ‘I want to focus on the present and on what Grosso asks of me.’

Spanish defender Jimenez was officially unveiled as a new Fiorentina player today, holding his first press conference in the Tuscan capital.

Jimenez has moved to the Stadio Franchi on loan with an option to buy from Bournemouth.

Jimenez’s first Fiorentina press conference

“It was all very quick. I immediately accepted because I liked the opportunities ahead. I’m very happy to be here,” Jimenez said via TMW.

Talking about his time at Milan, the Spaniard said: “It was a big stage in my career, but now I only think about working and playing for this team.”

BOURNEMOUTH, ENGLAND – JANUARY 24: Alex Jimenez of AFC Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Liverpool at Vitality Stadium on January 24, 2026 in Bournemouth, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Jimenez, a product of the Real Madrid academy, has already played in three different countries despite being only 21.

“I’m young and still need to grow. There’s nothing wrong with joining a new club. If I work well, it will be good for me.

“The Premier League is surely more physical, and having played there will help me here,” he added.

Questioned over his favourite role on the pitch, Jimenez said: “I’m at the team’s disposal, but the right-back role is my favourite. I’ve been here for a week, and I still haven’t heard what the coach expects. In the coming days, I’ll surely understand more.”

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 20: Alex Jimenez of AC Milan warms up prior to the Serie A match between AC Milan and Atalanta at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on April 20, 2025 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Jimenez played under Iraola at Bournemouth last season.

“Iraola is a coach who helped me so much, but he’s in the past,” the defender said.

“Now I want to focus on the present and what Grosso asks of me.”

Jimenez won the Supercoppa Italiana at Milan in 2024-25 and played 34 games at a senior level with the Rossoneri, including 26 in Serie A.

He still hasn’t scored a goal in Italy’s top flight, while netting once in the Premier League with Bournemouth last season.