Raúl Jiménez early Fulham release request before World Cup

Mexico manager Javier Aguirre is reportedly planning a trip to London in a bid to secure Raúl Jiménez’s early release from Fulham ahead of this summer’s World Cup preparations.

The Fulham striker has enjoyed a strong run of form in recent weeks, scoring six goals and registering one assist in his last 11 Premier League appearances. That sequence includes decisive contributions against Nottingham Forest and West Ham, as well as a brace in the 3-1 win over Sunderland.

With Marco Silva’s side currently sitting 10th in the table, Jiménez has become one of their most influential performers during the run-in.

Reports in Mexico from Medio Tiempo and La Opinión claim the national team want Jiménez available earlier than FIFA’s standard release window.

Fulham are scheduled to face Newcastle United on 24 May 2026 in their final Premier League fixture. Under FIFA regulations, players involved in the World Cup are expected to receive at least a week of rest before joining up with their national sides.

If Jiménez features in Fulham’s final game, he would reportedly be unavailable for Mexico’s friendly against Australia on 30 May. That would leave him eligible only for the final pre-tournament match against Serbia.

Mexico are also scheduled to face Ghana on 22 May.

According to the reports, Aguirre intends to meet Fulham officials directly in London to discuss a compromise that would allow Jiménez to participate in all three friendlies.

Jiménez has scored 11 goals in his last 17 appearances for El Tri and remains one of the squad’s most experienced forwards. After Mexico exited at the group stage in 2022, expectations are high for improvement on home soil this summer.

From Fulham’s perspective, the situation is delicate. The striker’s contract expires in June 2026 and there has been no confirmation regarding a renewal. Two months ago, Jiménez publicly expressed interest in eventually returning to Club América.

Having followed Fulham’s attacking structure this season, removing Jiménez before the campaign concludes would represent a significant loss given his recent impact.

However, much will depend on internal discussions and the player’s own stance, which has not yet been made public.

Talks between Mexico and Fulham are expected in the coming weeks. Any agreement would need to balance international preparation with club obligations. Much may hinge on Fulham’s league position heading into the final fixture and Jiménez’s personal preference.

Would Fulham allow an early departure if their season objectives are already secure?