Raul Jimenez has returned to training with Wolverhampton Wanderers nearly eight months after fracturing his skull in a Premier League match against Arsenal. The Mexican striker's comeback has sparked excitement among his teammates, who consider him a key figure both on and off the pitch.
Teammates Welcome Back the 'Big Legend'
Club captain Conor Coady expressed his delight at seeing Jimenez back in action, calling him a "big legend" and a vital part of the squad. "He's a massive player for us, a massive person off the pitch as well," Coady told the club's website. "To have him back around the training ground is brilliant. The lads are buzzing."
Midfielder Leander Dendoncker echoed those sentiments, highlighting Jimenez's influence in the dressing room. "He is a really important player for us. He scores goals, he links play, and he’s a great character. We are all happy to see him back," Dendoncker said.
Long Road to Recovery
Jimenez suffered a fractured skull following a collision with Arsenal defender David Luiz on November 29, 2020. He underwent surgery and has since followed a careful rehabilitation program. The 30-year-old has been cleared to resume contact training but does not yet have a firm date for a return to competitive matches.
Wolves manager Bruno Lage has emphasized that the club will not rush Jimenez back. "He is working very hard, but we have to be patient. The most important thing is his health," Lage stated. Jimenez has been gradually increasing his training intensity and participating in full team sessions.
Impact on the Squad
Jimenez's absence was keenly felt last season, as Wolves struggled for goals without their top scorer. In his absence, the team relied on Fabio Silva and Willian Jose, but neither replicated Jimenez's output. His return provides a significant morale boost and tactical option for Lage.
Coady added: "Having him back with us, you see the lift it gives everyone. He's our striker, he's a massive part of what we do. To have him back out there on the training pitch, it's fantastic."
Wolves fans are also eagerly awaiting Jimenez's comeback, which could come in pre-season friendlies or early in the 2021-22 season. The club has ensured that Jimenez wears protective headgear during training as a precaution.
