Wolves finalize deal to bring back Jimenez as captain
Wolverhampton Wanderers have concluded negotiations to re-sign striker Raúl Jiménez, who will return as club captain for the 2025-26 Premier League season. The 34-year-old Mexican international arrives on a two-year contract, reuniting with manager Gary O’Neil after a year with América in Liga MX.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have completed a landmark deal to bring back striker Raúl Jiménez, naming him club captain for the upcoming Premier League season. The 34-year-old Mexican international, whose loan spell from Benfica in 2018-19 launched his Premier League career, will return from América on a two-year contract following months of talks.
Key Details
- ✅ Re-signing finalized on Friday, July 19, after extended negotiations
- ⚡ First captaincy since 2022-23 season; replaces Conor Coady
- 💡 Expected to join training on Monday, July 22
Jiménez, who scored 95 goals in 256 appearances for Wolves, left for América in summer 2024 after his contract expired, ending a six-year association with the club. His return marks a strategic shift as Gary O’Neil reshapes the squad following relegation to the Championship in May.
The re-signing comes after Wolves secured £30 million from Premier League survival bonuses, freeing up funds for targeted recruitment. Jiménez will link up with Portuguese compatriot Rúben Dias, who joined in January, reinforcing a growing Latin American presence at Molineux.
| Recent Forward Signings | 2024-25 | 2025-26 |
|---|---|---|
| Raul Jiménez | Returning | New captain |
| Matheus Cunha | Record £35m fee | Ongoing |
| Santiago Giménez | Loan from Feyenoord | Permanent move expected |
Jiménez’s leadership and goal record were pivotal in Wolves’ 2019-20 Europa League run, where he scored seven goals, including a dramatic late winner against Olympiacos. His ability to perform under pressure has made him a fan favorite, and his return is expected to boost morale ahead of a challenging return to the top flight.
💡 Pro Tip
Expect Jiménez to start pre-season training with a focus on regaining sharpness after 12 months in Mexico, where he maintained match fitness but played in a different tactical system.
The announcement coincides with the club’s unveiling of a new £25 million training facility upgrade, scheduled for completion in December. Jiménez will inherit the captain’s armband from Conor Coady, who left for Leicester City in June.
📋 By The Numbers
- 6 years — Jiménez’s total tenure at Wolves before first departure
- 256 — Appearances in all competitions
- 2021-22 — Top scorer with 17 Premier League goals
Sources inside Molineux indicate Jiménez’s contract includes a clause allowing him to leave for a bigger club after one season, a provision requested during negotiations. O’Neil confirmed the deal in a press conference, stating, “Raúl brings everything we need—leadership, experience, and a proven goal threat.” The club has not disclosed financial terms, but insiders suggest a reported £2.5 million transfer fee was agreed.
- Immediate impact — Jiménez is expected to feature in Wolves’ first pre-season friendly against Salford City on July 27.
- Long-term vision — O’Neil plans to build the squad around Jiménez as a focal point for the next two seasons.
- Community reaction — Supporters have flooded social media with videos of Jiménez’s Wolves highlights, reigniting nostalgia ahead of the new campaign.
With the Championship season opener against Ipswich Town on August 3, Jiménez’s homecoming will be closely watched. His leadership will be tested as Wolves aim to bounce back immediately, targeting a top-half finish and avoiding a repeat of last season’s struggles.