Wolves' Raul Jimenez Undergoes Surgery on Fractured Skull
By Tom Gott
Wolves have confirmed that Mexican striker Raul Jimenez had to undergo surgery on Sunday evening after fracturing his skull in the early stages of the 2-1 win over Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium.
Jimenez was rushed to hospital early on after a sickening clash of heads with Arsenal defender David Luiz, who somehow played on until half-time with a bloody bandage wrapped around his head.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Raúl. ? pic.twitter.com/bN44uwCxim
— 90min (@90min_Football) November 29, 2020
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed after the game that Jimenez was 'awake and concious', but the club have now revealed that the striker fractured his skull during the collision, although is responding well.
“Raul is comfortable following an operation last night, which he underwent in a London hospital," a statement on the club's official website read. “He has since seen his partner Daniela and is now resting. He will remain under observation for a few days while he begins his recovery.
“The club would like to thank the medical staff at Arsenal, the NHS paramedics, hospital staff and surgeons who, through their skill and early response, were of such help.
“The club ask that Raul and his family are now afforded a period of space and privacy, before any further updates are provided in due course.”
The incident cast a dark cloud over what was otherwise an outstanding victory for Wolves, who climbed up to sixth place in the Premier League after picking up all three points.
With top scorer Jimenez off the field, Wolves took the lead through Pedro Neto, and after being immediately pegged back by Gabriel Magalhaes, they added a second courtesy of Daniel Podence shortly before half-time.
Nuno will hope to see his wingers continue to make up for the loss of Jimenez, while expensive summer signing Fabio Silva also stands to enjoy an extended run in the starting lineup while the Mexico international recovers.
The 18-year-old has started twice for Wolves since his £35.6m move from Porto during the summer and opened his account by netting twice in a 2-1 win over Doncaster midway through November.