How Wolves sealed the shock Raul Jimenez return | OneFootball

Raul Jimenez is returning to Wolves three years on, with the deal completed before Mexico’s World Cup opener. According to ExpressAndStar.com, the 35-year-old rejected MLS interest and a richer Premier League offer to drop to the Championship.

Talks began the week before Fulham visited Molineux last month, then accelerated after that game. Chairman Nathan Shi spoke with Jimenez and his family, and head coach Rob Edwards joined the hierarchy in backing a move, with Shi driving it.

Jimenez’s partner Daniela Basso showed the family’s affection for Wolves on social media, and the player felt the warmth of the Molineux reception. Offered a strong Championship salary, he took last week to make his final decision as the World Cup loomed.

Once he chose Wolves, all sides pushed to finish before Thursday. A three-strong Wolves delegation flew to Mexico’s camp, with Matt Wild handling contracts, Phil Hayward conducting the medical, and Yannie Makarounas overseeing media.

They returned on Wednesday after Wolves’ three-day mission, supported by the Mexican FA, proved a resounding success. Adam Armstrong vacated the number nine shirt for Jimenez.

Jimenez made his Premier League name at Wolves in 2018 to 2020, then suffered a horrendous head injury before rebuilding form at Fulham. His Molineux farewell under Julen Lopetegui turned sour when he was left unused. Now there is a sense of unfinished business as he aims to help take Wolves back to where they belong.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com