FIFA World Cup 2026: Why Raul Jimenez wears a protective headgear

Raul Jimenez’s protective headguard is more than just part of his match look. It’s a reminder of the night that almost ended his career.

Jimenez underwent surgery in late November 2020 after a collision with Arsenal defender David Luiz during a Premier League match. He collided with Luiz as he lunged for the ball in a corner and was carted off the pitch wearing an oxygen mask. The Mexican striker, who was then playing for Wolverhampton Wanderers, suffered a fractured skull and required emergency treatment in London.

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After months of recovery, Jimenez returned to football in August 2021, wearing a custom-made, medically approved protective headgear. He has continued to use it ever since and is expected to continue wearing it for the rest of his career.

Now back at the World Cup with Mexico, Jimenez remains one of the leading lights in the squad. Since making his national team debut in 2013, he has scored more than 40 goals for Mexico and remains in the lead at El Tri.

Published on June 12, 2026