Mexico star Jimenez told World Cup is not as important as club by Wolves boss Lopetegui

Jimenez out since August with groin injuryOn bench for recent Mexico friendlyLopetegui questions player’s priorities

WHAT HAPPENED? Julen Lopetegui is not thrilled that his star forward is going to Qatar as part of Mexico’s 26-man squad, suggesting the potential World Cup trip is a fitness risk that could hurt Wolves in the long run. But his comments are controversial given the passion Jimenez has for his national team and the rare opportunity to represent his country on the biggest stage.

WHAT THEY SAID: “I have spoken to Raul about Mexico and I am worried about him,” said Lopetegui, who was recently hired by Wolves after being sacked by Sevilla. “He hasn’t played for Wolves for a long time. We need him at his best and I hope he will come back in this way. The most important thing is not the World Cup. It’s Wolves.

“We have to defend our aims. I have respect for his situation and for Mexico but my focus is Wolves.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Lopetegui was officially appointed as Wolves’ manager on November 5, meaning he’s not had much time to build a relationship with Jimenez or the rest of the squad. His comments risk causing dressing room backlash at an early stage in his tenure.

IN TWO PHOTOS:

WHAT NEXT FOR JIMENEZ? Mexico announced their final 26-man World Cup squad on Monday and included Jimenez among their four forwards. He will be a candidate to start in their opener against Poland on November 22.

Related Post
Share
Published by
jxSx73amHi_gsw_tkr4qZXPAKZQh5eaKadEz.2Rq_wgSE5JFhTT4wZJh.d9g

Recent Posts

Mohammed Siraj reflects on 4-fer on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

India’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj was delighted with his personal performance on the opening day… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra slams West Indies after dismal showing on Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra criticized the West Indies’ performance after their mundane performance… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra gives stern warning to Sai Sudharsan after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has urged Sai Sudharsan to make the most of his… Read More

October 3, 2025

Aakash Chopra urges KL Rahul to capitalise on home season after Day 1 of IND vs WI 2025 1st Test

Former Indian Test opener Aakash Chopra has urged KL Rahul to continue his rich form… Read More

October 3, 2025

Parthiv Patel urges ‘tentative’ Sai Sudharsan to stay calm against the West Indies

Former Indian wicket-keeper Parthiv Patel has urged Sai Sudharsan to remain calm in the Test… Read More

October 3, 2025

Darren Ganga lauds KL Rahul after Indian opener continues rich form against the West Indies

Former West Indies batter Darren Ganga showered praise on KL Rahul after the Indian opener… Read More

October 3, 2025