Who Is Raul Jimenez?
Raúl Jiménez is a professional footballer from Mexico who plays as a striker. Born on May 5, 1991, in Tepeji del Río, Hidalgo, Mexico, Jimenez developed through the youth system of Club América before becoming one of the country’s most recognized football exports. He has represented Mexico in multiple FIFA World Cups, CONCACAF tournaments, and international competitions.
Throughout his career, Jimenez has played for several notable clubs, including Club América, Atlético Madrid, Benfica, Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Fulham. His combination of strength, technique, and intelligent movement has made him a valuable striker wherever he has played.
Early Career at Club América
Jimenez began his professional football journey with Club América. After progressing through the youth ranks, he made his senior debut in 2011.
His breakthrough quickly followed as he became a reliable goal scorer in Liga MX. During his time at América, Jimenez helped the club win domestic titles and establish itself among Mexico’s elite teams. His performances attracted interest from European clubs, paving the way for a move overseas.
By the time he left América, Jimenez had scored numerous goals and gained recognition as one of Mexico’s brightest attacking prospects.
Move to Europe
Atlético Madrid
In 2014, Jimenez joined Atlético Madrid. The move represented a major step forward in his career.
Although opportunities were limited due to fierce competition for places, Jimenez gained valuable experience playing under one of Europe’s top football systems. He also competed in elite competitions and learned from world-class teammates.
Benfica
Following his spell in Spain, Jimenez transferred to Benfica.
His time in Portugal proved highly successful. Jimenez won league titles, domestic cups, and established himself as an important attacking player. Across multiple seasons, he delivered crucial goals and helped Benfica remain one of Portugal’s dominant teams.
The striker’s performances in Portugal eventually caught the attention of English clubs.
Raul Jimenez and Wolverhampton Wanderers
No club is more closely associated with Raul Jimenez than Wolverhampton Wanderers.
In 2018, Jimenez arrived at Wolves initially on loan before the transfer became permanent. What followed was one of the most successful periods in the club’s recent history.
Wolves Success
Jimenez immediately adapted to English football.
His goals helped Wolves secure strong Premier League finishes and compete in European competitions. During his peak years, he formed a deadly partnership with players such as Diogo Jota and Adama Traoré.
Key achievements during his Wolves tenure included:
- Becoming the club’s leading Premier League scorer.
- Helping Wolves qualify for European football.
- Scoring crucial goals in domestic and European competitions.
- Establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent strikers.
During the 2019-20 season, Jimenez enjoyed arguably the best campaign of his career, reaching double figures in goals and earning widespread praise.
The Serious Head Injury
One of the defining moments of Jimenez’s career came in November 2020.
During a Premier League match against Arsenal, Jimenez suffered a devastating skull fracture following a collision with defender David Luiz. The injury required emergency surgery and kept him away from football for several months.
Many feared his career could be over.
However, Jimenez demonstrated remarkable determination and resilience. After months of rehabilitation, he returned to professional football while wearing protective headgear. His comeback became one of football’s most inspiring recovery stories.
Fulham and Career Revival
In 2023, Jimenez joined Fulham FC in search of a fresh start.
After initially struggling to rediscover his best form, the Mexican striker gradually regained confidence. He scored important goals and once again became a valuable attacking option in the Premier League. FIFA highlighted his resurgence as a key boost for both Fulham and the Mexico national team.
His performances helped remind football fans why he had been regarded as one of the Premier League’s most complete forwards.
Raul Jimenez and Mexico
Jimenez’s importance to the Mexico national team cannot be overstated.
Since making his international debut in 2013, he has become one of Mexico’s most experienced and respected players. He has represented his country in:
- FIFA World Cups
- CONCACAF Gold Cups
- CONCACAF Nations League
- Copa América
- FIFA Confederations Cup
Jimenez was also part of Mexico’s Olympic gold medal-winning squad at the 2012 London Olympics.
Mexico Goals and Legacy
Over the years, Jimenez has climbed the list of Mexico’s all-time leading goal scorers.
His goals have come in friendlies, qualifiers, continental tournaments, and major international competitions. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a trusted figure for multiple national team coaches.
In recent years, he has also emerged as a mentor to younger Mexican forwards while continuing to contribute on the field. His performances helped Mexico capture the CONCACAF Nations League title and strengthened hopes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Raul Jimenez Jersey Number
One of the most searched topics among fans is Raul Jimenez’s jersey number.
Throughout his career, he has worn several numbers:
- #9 for Mexico
- #9 during various club spells
- #7 at Fulham
- Other squad numbers during earlier stages of his career depending on team requirements.
The number 9 remains most closely associated with Jimenez because it reflects his traditional role as a center-forward and primary goal scorer.
Many Wolves and Mexico supporters continue to purchase jerseys bearing his name as a tribute to his contributions.
Raul Jimenez Playing Style
Jimenez is not a typical striker who relies solely on goals.
His game includes:
Aerial Ability
Standing around 1.87 meters tall, he excels in winning headers and creating scoring opportunities from crosses.
Link-Up Play
Jimenez is known for bringing teammates into the game through intelligent passing and movement.
Finishing
Whether using his right foot, left foot, or head, he can score from various positions.
Work Rate
Coaches appreciate his defensive contribution and willingness to press opponents.
Leadership
His experience in multiple leagues and international tournaments has transformed him into a leader on and off the pitch.
Current Team Situation
As of June 2026, reports indicate that Jimenez has been released by Fulham following the expiration of his contract. Multiple sources suggest he is set for an emotional return to Wolverhampton Wanderers, the club where he became a fan favorite and achieved some of the greatest moments of his career.
The potential reunion has generated excitement among Wolves supporters, many of whom still regard Jimenez as one of the club’s modern legends. Community discussions on Reddit also show strong fan enthusiasm for his return.
Career Statistics Overview
While exact numbers continue to evolve, Jimenez’s career includes:
- Hundreds of professional appearances.
- Goals across Liga MX, La Liga, Primeira Liga, Premier League, and international football.
- Multiple domestic league titles.
- Olympic gold medal.
- CONCACAF trophies.
- Appearances in several FIFA World Cups.
His longevity and consistency place him among Mexico’s finest football exports.
Why Raul Jimenez Remains Important
Few footballers have overcome adversity like Raul Jimenez.
After suffering a life-threatening injury, many doubted whether he could ever return to top-level football. Instead, he rebuilt his career, regained his confidence, and continued representing Mexico on the international stage.
His story resonates with football fans worldwide because it combines talent, perseverance, and determination.
Whether wearing the jersey of Mexico, Wolves, Benfica, or Fulham, Jimenez has consistently displayed professionalism and commitment.
Conclusion
Raul Jimenez’s football journey is a remarkable story of success, resilience, and dedication. From his beginnings at Club América to becoming a Wolverhampton Wanderers legend and a cornerstone of the Mexico national team, he has built a career that few Mexican footballers can match.
His achievements include domestic titles, international honors, memorable Premier League performances, and a courageous comeback from a devastating injury. As he enters the latter stages of his career, Jimenez remains one of the most respected figures in Mexican football.
For Wolves supporters, Mexico fans, and football enthusiasts worldwide, Raul Jimenez’s legacy is already secure as one of the greatest Mexican strikers of his generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Raul Jimenez?
Raul Jimenez is a Mexican professional football striker known for playing for Club América, Atlético Madrid, Benfica, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham, and the Mexico national team.
What jersey number does Raul Jimenez wear?
Jimenez has worn several numbers during his career, but he is most commonly associated with the number 9 for Mexico and number 7 at Fulham.
Which team made Raul Jimenez famous in England?
Wolverhampton Wanderers helped establish Jimenez as a Premier League star. He became the club’s leading Premier League scorer and fan favorite.
What injury did Raul Jimenez suffer?
He suffered a serious skull fracture in 2020 following a collision during a Premier League match against Arsenal.
Has Raul Jimenez won trophies with Mexico?
Yes. Jimenez has won major regional tournaments with Mexico and was also part of the Olympic gold medal-winning squad in 2012.
Is Raul Jimenez returning to Wolves?
Recent reports indicate that Jimenez is expected to rejoin Wolverhampton Wanderers after leaving Fulham in 2026.
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