Raul Jimenez is ‘one of the best players in the world’ and would improve Pep Guardiola’s world-beating Manchester City side. Bruno Lage is in no doubt of the above statement ahead of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ meeting with the Premier League champions on Saturday. Lage regularly talks Jimenez up as his ‘perfect striker’ – but what does he mean by that?
Bruno Lage said: “The good example is when you look at the game, in every moment Raul is there. When he has the ball he comes to link the game. When it’s time to attack the spaces he makes the runs in the channel. Inside the box and shooting outside the box, he is there. When you are defending he is the first guy to press. Also in offensive and defensive set pieces. In every moment he is there and that is what I believe the best players should have. Raul is there.”
Lage’s eyes always light up when Jimenez is the topic of conversation.
Bruno Lage added: “He’s a good example for all the kids who want to be top players – not just a top player, but also a top man. We are talking about one of the best players in the world and he’s playing for us. He is a big reference for everyone who wants to become football players.”
Before his injury, Jimenez was linked with transfers to almost every elite club in Europe. City were reportedly among his suitors at one stage, as were Manchester United, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus. Now Jimenez has shown no ill-effects following a career threatening injury, the transfer rumour engines will inevitably start revving again. After all, Jimenez’s record for club and country since joining Wolves, initially on loan in 2018, puts him amongst the best centre-forwards in Europe.
Bruno Lage said: “Sometimes the best is a question of opportunity. I don’t want to say that (Jimenez is one of the best number nines in Europe) because imagine if Pep comes with his money. Imagine Raul playing for Man City, I can imagine that. He knows that game, he knows how to play inside, he knows how to play in the box, he will run a lot when you are defending, so he has all the profile. I don’t want to give him ideas! I will try and get him to sign for 10 more years with Wolves! The striker is a different position because he needs ability, but also the game to support the team. Raul is that kind of player. For me, he can play in any team and I’m very happy to have him. I wasn’t happy because we sold him from Benfica, but now I’m very happy to have him in my team.”
