Need to knowThe Mexico striker has worn the headband during every game he's featured in at the World Cup22:30, 05 Jul 2026Raul Jimenez is an important player for MexicoHere's everything you need to know about why Raul Jimenez wears a headband:Skull fracture incident: In November 2020, Raul Jimenez suffered a devastating and life-threatening fractured skull while playing for Wolves in the Premier League. This horrific injury occurred during an early corner kick after a sickening clash of heads with then Arsenal defender David Luiz, leaving fans and players in shock.Emergency brain surgery: He immediately lost consciousness on the pitch, requiring urgent oxygen administration before being rushed to a trauma centre in London. Upon arrival, the striker underwent emergency surgery to repair the fracture and relieve pressure caused by internal bleeding inside his brain.A medical miracle: Doctors later revealed to the football star and his family that simply surviving the harrowing incident was a miracle. There were profound initial fears among medical professionals that the severe cranial trauma would force him into an immediate and tragic retirement from football.Custom protective headgear: After many months of gruelling and uncertain rehabilitation, Jimenez remarkably returned to the highest level of the sport he loves. He is now medically mandated to permanently wear a custom-made, heavily padded protective headband to shield the structurally fragile area of his healing skull.Absorbing impact forces: The specialised, high-tech headgear is engineered to absorb heavy physical impacts and safely distribute the blunt force of any future collisions on the pitch. It specifically covers and protects the sensitive surgical scar and the permanent structural weak points left behind by the complex bone fracture.Restoring mental confidence: Medical professionals strictly mandated that he must wear this essential safety equipment during all training sessions and matches for the rest of his career. Beyond the obvious physical protection, it provides the vital mental confidence required to compete aggressively at the elite level without crippling hesitation.Resuming aerial battles: Despite the genuinely terrifying nature of his original injury, Jimenez has bravely and fully resumed challenging for high aerial balls in the penalty area. He routinely attacks crosses with zero fear, continuing to score brilliant headed goals for both his respective club teams and his beloved national side.Symbol of resilience: The Mexican striker's incredible, against-all-odds comeback has cemented his enduring legacy as a profound symbol of immense psychological and physical resilience. Football fans all over the world deeply admire his unyielding determination to overcome a traumatic moment.World Cup clash: As Mexico are playing England at the World Cup, you will undoubtedly see him proudly sporting this iconic piece of protective equipment on the global stage. The headband serves as a highly visible, inspiring reminder of the harrowing, life-or-death battle he fought just to stay on the pitch.Read more: England's preparation ahead of their World Cup last 16 clash with Mexico.