Wolverhampton Wanderers have released an update on striker Raul Jimenez ahead of the training camp in Marbella. Jimenez, 31, has missed the last 12 fixtures for Wolves due to a groin problem but recently featured for the Mexico national side during their 2022 Qatar World Cup campaign. The striker was limited to just 59 minutes off the bench against Argentina, Poland and Saudi Arabia with Mexico finishing third in Group C. Following Mexico’s exit at the group stage, Wolves say Jimenez will link up with the squad at the club’s 10-day training camp in Marbella.
Matt Hobs said: “Taking the staff and players away to a different surrounding will allow Julen (Lopetegui) to work with the group with no distractions, at a base we know well, having used the facility a number of times in recent years, The ten days will give the coaching staff further opportunities to lay out their ideas to the players and the games against European opposition will provide a useful test, as we prepare for the return of the Premier League in the coming weeks. While out in Spain, we’re looking forward to welcoming Raul back to the group, giving Julen further opportunities to assess his squad and share his philosophy, tactics and mindset, going into an important period after the World Cup.”
Lopetegui took charge of his first game since being appointed as Wolves boss on Saturday, with his squad facing off against local rivals Birmingham City in a behind-closed-doors friendly. The fixture ended 2-2 at Compton Park, with goals coming from Diego Costa and Daniel Podence. Wolves headed to Spain on Monday and will play friendly fixtures against Serie A side Empoli and La Liga outfit Cadiz while they are there.