Raul Jimenez has not gone on international duty with Mexico.
Mexico are seemingly not impressed that Wolves haven’t let Jimenez go, due to ongoing concerns over the pandemic and government rules on quarantine upon returning.
They have released an official statement about Jimenez not linking up with the squad.
It read: “Due to the refusal of the Wolverhampton Wanderers to allow Raúl Jiménez to report to the Mexican National Team, the Mexican Football Federation has made the necessary arrangements with FIFA.
“They today notified Wolverhampton that if the player is not released, he will not be eligible to participate with his club, during the FIFA window plus an additional period of five days.
“Wolverhampton may also receive additional sanctions. The FMF is awaiting the response of the club to this and attaches the statement of the FIFA President, Gianni Infantino, who said:
“The release of players for the next international break is a matter of great urgency and importance. I would like all member associations, leagues and clubs to show solidarity and do what is both right and fair for world football.
“The Mexican Soccer Federation reiterates its commitment to strictly apply the established health protocols, in order to take care of each of the members of the Mexican National Team.”
Wolves’ game with Watford falls within the five day period after the FIFA international window ends.
That means that Bruno Lage could be without his main striker for that important clash.
There is also no guidance on what the ‘additional sanctions’ mentioned which could be coming Wolves’ way are.
We’ll see if this situation is diplomatically resolved or whether it descends into a situation where Jimenez is unavailable for selection against the Hornets.
- 'Tremendous': Goncalo Guedes names the Wolves star who's helped him settle
- Report: Wolves tried to sign £10m player back in January, but couldn't reach agreement
- 'Difficult to imagine': Former Wolves star thinks 33-year-old won't start at West Ham
- Bruno Lage absolutely must start 26-year-old Wolves star at West Ham – opinion
- Wolves reportedly have agreement to sign 18-year-old 'gem' for £5.3m