The performance against Man United was one of the best we have seen from Jhon Arias since joining Wolves.
With plenty of absences for Rob Edwards to deal with, he made a bold call with the Colombian attacker.
Wolves fans were impressed by Arias in midfield, playing much deeper than we have seen in recent months.
It’s a rare strong display in an otherwise underwhelming season for the new signing. Arias has been linked with a Wolves exit already, but a statement he made following the trip to Old Trafford could dispel those rumours.
Did Jhon Arias give his best performance in a Wolves shirt to date vs Man United? 🤔
The Colombian put in an industrious display playing as a number eight…
Jhon Arias makes Wolves commitment
Of all the new signings, Arias felt in the most likely position to push for an exit given his age and the interest he was attracting.
Flamengo were rumoured to be interested in Arias, and his performances haven’t been of a level where Wolves would feel they can’t lose him.
But it’s possible he has turned the corner finally, and from his own words, Wolves is where he wants to be.
He said in an interview for Wolves’ website: “There’s also a World Cup coming up. I’m a national team player and I want to be there, I want to be in top form, because it’s my dream to play at the World Cup, so these kinds of rumours always appear.
“But right now, I’m here at Wolverhampton, fully focused on Wolverhampton. My present is here. I’m very professional and I’m 100% focused on doing things right here, on improving, on giving what I can as the player I am.
“It’s a club that needs me at this moment. I’m here and I’m going to try to do things better, because I know I can be better and that we, as a club, can deliver better performances in the Premier League. That’s my focus right now.”
While players are often ‘fully committed’ to a club right up until the moment of departure, this felt like a situation where Arias would have a say — it sounds like he has.
Arias as an option in midfield
Wolves’ problematic midfield depth could be exacerbated even further in January.
Marshall Munetsi is attracting interest from several clubs, and any of the senior figures could be tempted away.
If Arias’ performance against United is anything to go off, he might be able to help in that department. He has the physical tools and a Munetsi-like engine.
What do you make of Wolves wanting a defensive midfielder?👀
Joao Gomes and Andre have been linked with moves away from Molineux…
That said, Wolves need to sign a new midfielder. One who can shore up the side defensively and give Wolves more control in possession.
Having Arias as an option in the engine room is decent, but Wolves signed him to get amongst the goals.
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