Wolves should axe Raul Jimenez after telling in-depth data emerges

Wolverhampton Wanderers must not start Raul Jimenez for their upcoming West Midlands derby clash against Birmingham City on Sunday.

The Mexico international made a stunning return to Molineux this summer as he signed for the club on a free transfer after being released by Fulham.

It was a significant coup for Wolves, with the striker’s performances in the 2026 World Cup only going on to prove that there is still a quality player in there despite his age.

However, so far in the 2026-27 campaign, Jimenez has struggled, with both of his goals coming from the penalty spot.

In the 4-2 defeat to West Ham United, the 35-year-old was simply awful as he provided no threat up top for the visitors on Tuesday.

Now, Cesar Peixoto must be ruthless and drop the striker to the bench for the Birmingham clash.

Raul Jimenez was extremely poor vs West Ham

Jimenez has struggled since moving to Wolves this summer.

The striker’s recent performances have arguably been saved by his two penalty goals, which have clouded his ineffective displays.

However, he had nowhere to hide on Tuesday as he was completely anonymous against West Ham.

According to Fotmob on 4 September, Jimenez only managed three shots, all of which were off target, a 0.10 xG, a 55 per cent passing completion rate, he created zero chances, failed to complete his one attempted dribble and only had three touches in the opposition box.

When Wolves have a player like Adam Armstrong sitting on the bench, who has already scored from open play this season, Peixoto simply has to bring him back in the line-up for Jimenez, who is clearly out of form.

What is Adam Armstrong’s record vs Birmingham City?

When he has come up against Birmingham City, Armstrong is usually superb.

Overall, he has netted against the Blues 11 times in his 12 appearances against the club.

This includes eight goals in his last six meetings against the West Midlands club, showcasing his usual dominance.

Therefore, this only serves to reinforce the fact that Armstrong should return to the starting XI to face Birmingham on Sunday.

Jimenez could prove to be a useful impact sub if to help secure a result at St Andrew’s.