Wolves return to action in the Premier League this afternoon as a trip to Arsenal opens the 2024/25 season.
Gary O’Neil has prepared his squad all summer for the opening day challenge at the Emirates Stadium this afternoon.
Wolves travel to North London in a bid to make a statement following their successful pre-season.
As expected, the manager has not given too much away regarding who will play against the Gunners however, one player’s chances have been confirmed.
Rodrigo Gomes will start for Wolves against Arsenal
Speaking to the media in the pre-match press conference ahead of Wolves’ trip to the capital, O’Neil confirmed that Rodrigo Gomes will start at the Emirates.
As relayed by journalist Nathan Judah, the boss admitted it will be a “huge test” for the 21-year-old, but one that he deserves.
“He deserves it, he’s been wonderful, but it’s a huge test tomorrow, we’re excited for Rodrigo.”
The winger captured the attention of many throughout the summer following his arrival from Braga, scoring twice against West Ham and once against RB Leipzig during the US pre-season tour.
As well as making a claim over Gomes’ stance for the Arsenal game, O’Neil shed less light on whether fellow summer signing Jorgen Strand Larsen would make his full competitive debut.
Full Premier League debut for Gomes hints at future role
A full Premier League debut on the opening day against Arsenal is a ‘huge test’ for Gomes, as O’Neil explained, however, it’s one that doesn’t come as much of a surprise.
The 21-year-old stood out as one of Wolves’ shining lights over the summer, showing great confidence, maturity and most importantly, a willingness to learn and adapt promptly.
Handing Gomes a start at the Emirates not only rewards his work in pre-season, but hints at how the manager sees him in his squad ahead of the new campaign.
It’s now clear that the Portuguese starlet will be a key player in the boss’ favoured XI this term, making him one to really watch over his first year at Molineux.
Challenges don’t come much harder than a trip to North London to face Mikel Arteta’s machine but it’s encouraging to see that Gomes is considered ready to partake in the battle.