Mexico manager Jaime Lozano hasn’t included Fulham’s Raúl Jiménez in his squad to face both Panama in the Concacaf Nations League and a friendly against Bolivia this month.
The 32-year-old will miss the clash against Panama and this was confirmed by the player himself during an interview with W Radio’s Claro Sports.
A hamstring injury forced the striker to miss six games for Fulham for over a month. He returned to action in the Premier League side’s 3-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.
Lozano has concerns over the former Wolves star’s fitness, resulting in his decision to not consider him for the clash against Panama.
“It’s difficult, it’s hard but I also understand the decision. Jimmy was in contact with me, he told me he wasn’t going to be in the squad,” he said.
“I hope he continues to count on me, he wants me to recover 100% so as not to force something that could be counterproductive in the end. He told me to stay calm, to keep focused on doing what I have to do at Fulham so that I can be in the next squad.”
The Fulham player will be 35 years of age when the 2026 World Cup kicks off in America and has now set a goal to be part of the national team squad for that tournament.
“I see myself in the World Cup. I don’t know if I’ll be a starter or not, that’s what I’m working for, to be an important player, to be there, to contribute what I know, to help the team,” Jiménez explained.
“Obviously, we all want to be starters and play every game. I see myself being there, helping the team to have a great World Cup.”
The Mexican joined Fulham from Wolves last summer and signed a deal until 2025, with an option for another year. He’s scored five goals from 25 appearances so far for Marco Silva’s side.
