Raúl Jiménez has enjoyed a good run with Fulham over the past two months or so.
The Mexico international has scored six goals and contributed one assist in his past 11 Premier League matches for Fulham.
This includes winners against both Nottingham Forest and West Ham United and a brace in Fulham’s 3-1 win over Sunderland at the weekend.
These results see Marco Silva’s side sit 10th in the table, 12 points ahead of 18th placed West Ham and three behind seventh placed Brentford.
Jiménez has been one of the key figures for Fulham and his recent displays have created a buzz in Mexico. That’s mainly because of the World Cup this summer, with some matches taking place in the country.
During the 2022 World Cup, El Tri exited after group stage, and Jiménez made three substitute appearances.
Why Mexico want early release from Fulham
The striker has also starred for the national team in recent years, scoring 11 goals in the last 17 appearances. There would be expectations on him to perform well in the FIFA tournament.
Medio Tiempo and La Opinión both report the national team want Fulham to release him before the end of the season.
The Premier League side face Newcastle United in their final match on May 24th. The outlet says FIFA rules state players called up for World Cup should take at least a week off.
If Jiménez makes it to Silva’s squad against Newcastle United, he won’t be able to play the friendly against Australia on May 30th. In other words, the frontman will only be eligible to feature in the last friendly against Serbia.
Therefore, Medio Tiempo and La Opinión state Mexico manager Javier Aguirre will travel to England to hold talks with Fulham. The trip to London will be to convince Silva’s side to release Jiménez before the end of this season.
La Opinión state: ‘The Mexican national team coach’s plan is for Jiménez to be able to participate in at least Mexico’s last three friendly matches against Ghana, Australia, and Serbia, scheduled for May 22nd and 30th, as well as June 4th.’
The two reports make no mention of the 34-year-old’s stance.
His contract expires in June and it’s unclear whether he’ll continue with the English club. Two months ago, Jiménez expressed his desire to return to his former team, Club América.