Raúl Jiménez achieved a historic milestone on Sunday as he became the highest-scoring Mexican player in Premier League history with his performance against Ipswich Town. The Fulham striker scored two penalties, the second of which salvaged a 2-2 draw for his team, bringing his total to 55 goals and surpassing the previous record held by Javier Hernández.
The match at Craven Cottage was tense, with Fulham needing to come from behind twice to secure the point. Jiménez’s late equalizer, netted during stoppage time, was not only pivotal for the game but also marked a personal triumph for the 33-year-old forward who has battled through adversity to return to form.
Prior to this match, Hernández brewed as the benchmark with 53 goals scored during his stints at Manchester United and West Ham United. Jiménez achieved his record-breaking goal tally over 179 appearances, highlighting his persistence and tenacity after overcoming significant injury setbacks.
Jiménez’s early career at Wolverhampton Wanderers saw him rise through the ranks as one of the league's celebrated forwards. Yet, everything changed dramatically when he sustained a severe head injury following a collision with Arsenal defender David Luiz in November 2020. This accident not only fractured his skull but also left him sidelined for nearly eight months, raising concerns about his career longevity.
Fulham, recognizing Jiménez's potential and history, signed him on a deal worth just over £5 million last summer after his previous season with Wolves failed to yield any top-flight goals. Manager Marco Silva expressed his belief in Jiménez’s abilities, stating, "We were the ones who believed in him, and it’s paying off, not just now but some moments of last season. We are very proud of how he is performing and helping him reach a good level again."
During Sunday’s match, Fulham found themselves trailing twice after Ipswich’s goals, one scored by Sammie Szmodics and another from Liam Delap. Despite the setbacks, Jiménez remained calm under pressure, converting his penalties with composure. His first penalty came after VAR confirmed contact with midfielder Harry Wilson, leading to Jiménez stepping up to equalize after his team had initially fallen behind.
The second half saw Fulham push hard for control, with Jiménez leaking opportunities to intimidate defenders. Yet, he found himself vulnerable to Ipswich’s relentless counterattacks. Bilateral scoring attempts converged as both teams demonstrated tactical prowess from deep inside their respective fields.
After failing to convert several promising chances, Fulham received another opportunity when Jiménez was fouled just outside the visitor's penalty area late on. Jiménez capitalized once more from the spot, reiteratively taking aim as the clock ticked toward 91 minutes, securing his record and leveling the match.
Post-match, Silva highlighted the importance of Jiménez's achievement not only for him as an individual but for Mexican football at large. "It is so nice to see him achieve such an incredible number and it should be an honor for him being a Mexican player. I’m sure he will be in Premier League history for many, many years," Silva said during the press conference.
Reflecting on Jiménez’s career, Silva noted, "I don’t know if someone will come to break his record, but it’s an honor for him, and let’s hope there is more to come from him."
Fulham currently sees Jiménez as instrumental to their success, particularly as they navigate the competitive waters of the Premier League. Silva emphasized the importance of Jiménez's resilience, noting, "He was really down when we signed him, we showed the trust in him and it is paying off. He has been fighting since the first two or three months."
With his contract set to expire at the end of this season, there have been discussions about extending Jiménez's stay at Fulham, based on his performance and contribution to the team’s dynamic. Silva mentioned, "We have the option and everything is in our hands. What he has been showing every single week and every single training session, I don’t think Raúl needs to be concerned about it."
Fulham’s rise under Silva’s leadership has coincided with Jiménez’s comeback stories, merging personal and professional victories. Fans and teammates alike are excited about what lies ahead for Jiménez as he aims to increase his goal tally and inspire future generations.
Raúl Jiménez's legacy as the highest-scoring Mexican player makes his achievements worth celebrating, reflecting not just personal triumph but also a beacon of hope for aspiring footballers across Mexico.