Rayan Ait-Nouri was once lauded for ‘remarkable’ trait, but Wolves still don’t know whether it’s good or bad

Wolves signed Rayan Ait-Nouri in 2021 and have enjoyed the defender’s rise in the Premier League ever since.

The Old Gold first acquired the Algerian on loan from Angers over the 2020/21 season, then made the decision to sign him permanently.

Since then, Ait-Nouri has become one of the Premier League’s best left-sided defenders, thriving in Vitor Pereira’s system.

Wolves are wary of uncertainties regarding Ait-Nouri’s future, but for the remaining two games of the 2024/25 campaign, the Old Gold will relish seeing the excitement the 23-year-old brings. 

Rayan Ait-Nouri trait branded ‘remarkable’ before Wolves transfer

It’s understood that several top six clubs are admirers of Ait-Nouri, who has caught the eye of many for his form over the season.

The fearless edge that the Algeria international plays with makes him stand out above the rest on the pitch at times, a trait that has always been traceable in the defender’s game.

At the time of Ait-Nouri signing for Wolves, former Ligue 1 commentator Eric Krakauer was interviewed by The Athletic, where he shared what the French top tier had seen from the Old Gold’s new signing. 

“He’s still very young, Wolves fans are going to have to be patient with him,” Krakauer said in 2020.

“What is so remarkable is the confidence he has, even when he’s playing against far superior opposition.”

Krakauer noted that those in France were stunned by the ‘remarkable’ level of confidence Ait-Nouri showcased at Angers, a part of his game that certainly hasn’t changed at Molineux.

The left-back’s skill and fearless edge had rival fans believing Ait-Nouri could play for Real Madrid, following his performance against Brighton, but the full-back’s focus on playing with freedom on the left side isn’t all sunshine and rainbows. 

Ait-Nouri’s confidence sometimes leaves Wolves short

Transfer speculation isn’t the only uncertainty that Wolves face, as there has been a lot of discussion regarding Ait-Nouri’s best position.

Utilised as a left-wing-back by Pereira, the 23-year-old thrives, but also, his confidence when flying forward has left the Old Gold vulnerable at the back at times. 

Wolves fans have criticised Ait-Nouri’s defensive weaknesses during this season, calling the Algerian out for leaving the pockets behind him uncovered when he ventures into the final third.

It’s not only Wolves fans who have noted the gaps in their defender’s game, as Pereira committed to helping Ait-Nouri improve defensively, which could take him to the next level.

Ultimately, while the former Angers starlet’s confidence is ‘remarkable’, it’s also a trait that can trigger some vulnerability in Wolves’ back line.