How Wolves sealed Raul Jimenez’s surprise return before Mexico’s World Cup kick-off | OneFootball

Raul Jimenez is returning to Wolves after three years away, a full-circle homecoming sealed before Mexico’s World Cup opener. The 35-year-old first became a Molineux idol between 2018 and 2020, then battled back from a serious head injury and found form again at Fulham.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, talks started the week before Fulham visited last month, and momentum grew after that match. Chairman Nathan Shi spoke with Jimenez at full-time, and the striker indicated he was open to coming back.

Head coach Rob Edwards and the hierarchy made a unanimous call to pursue the deal, with Shi leading discussions with the player and his family, a role both Edwards and Jimenez have since credited. A strong Championship salary was on offer, but the rousing Molineux reception, complete with the Si Senor chant, also carried weight.

Jimenez had interest from MLS and other teams, plus one firm Premier League offer worth significantly more, yet chose to drop to the Championship. He settled on his decision last week, and Wolves pushed to complete everything quickly.

Three club staff travelled to the Mexico camp to finalise matters, Matt Wild handling contracts, Phil Hayward conducting the medical, and Yannie Makarounas overseeing media, with logistical help from the Mexican FA. Adam Armstrong has vacated the number nine shirt for Jimenez’s return.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com