Raúl Jiménez: Career, Comeback & 2026 World Cup Outlook

Early Life and Professional Beginnings

Birth and Formative Years

Born Raúl Alonso Jiménez Rodríguez on 5 May 1991 in Tepeji del Río, Mexico, the striker began his football education in Club América’s youth academy.

Rise at Club América

Jiménez made his professional debut in 2011 and quickly became the club’s first-choice forward. He collected domestic honors and gained continental exposure before securing a move to Europe.

European Career Path

Benfica Breakthrough (2014–2015)

A 2014 transfer to Benfica brought immediate Primeira Liga impact, domestic titles, and a platform for a higher-profile league.

Premier League Years

• Atlético Madrid Loan (2018–2019): A season-long La Liga loan prepared him for England.
• Wolverhampton Wanderers (2019–2023): Peak scoring form turned him into a Molineux favorite.
• Fulham (2023–present): He remained in the Premier League as a leader before becoming a free agent ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 2020 Skull Fracture & Remarkable Recovery

On-Field Incident and Immediate Aftermath

A fractured skull sustained against Arsenal required emergency surgery and a lengthy rehabilitation.

Return and Psychological Resilience

Jiménez scored on his emotional return and now wears a protective headband for every match Source 10.

International Career with Mexico

Early Caps and Major Tournaments

A senior debut in 2013 led to appearances at the 2014, 2018, and 2022 World Cups.

2026 World Cup Campaign

Nearly six years after his injury, Jiménez scored his first World Cup goal and declared his desire to lift the trophy on home soil Source 7.

Personal Life and Off-Field Presence

Family and Relationships

He is father to daughter Arya and son Ander, and longtime partner of Daniela Basso.

Public Image and Social Media

With over three million Instagram followers (@raulalonsojimenez9), Jiménez actively engages fans and shares national-team content Source 9.

Current Market Value and Statistical Snapshot

Transfermarkt tracks his career totals, market-value trends, and 2025/26 projections Source 2.

FAQ

How old is Raúl Jiménez and when is his birthday? Born 5 May 1991, he is 34.

Which clubs has Raúl Jiménez played for in Europe? Benfica, Atlético Madrid (loan), Wolverhampton Wanderers, and Fulham.

What happened during Raúl Jiménez’s 2020 head injury? He fractured his skull, underwent surgery, and now wears a protective headband.

Has Raúl Jiménez scored in the FIFA World Cup? Yes—his first goal came during the 2026 tournament.

What is Raúl Jiménez’s current club status? A free agent after leaving Fulham, he remains Mexico’s first-choice striker.

Why does Raúl Jiménez wear a headband during matches? It provides permanent cranial protection following his 2020 injury.