Wolves’ versatile summer signing Rodrigo Gomes has been praised for doing one thing some of his teammates have failed at.
Gary O’Neil signed Gomes from SC Braga during the summer transfer window, bringing a player of vast versatility and potential to the West Midlands.
The Portuguese forward has starred in the wide areas when utilised throughout the season, being able to play as a wing-back or further forward as a winger, making him the perfect capture for Vitor Pereira’s system.
Gomes was a stellar parting gift for O’Neil to leave Pereira, who has seen firsthand just how impactful the 21-year-old could grow to become.
Rodrigo Gomes applauded for finding a place in Vitor Pereira’s system
Gomes starred off the bench against Leicester City, scoring his second Premier League goal against the side that allowed him to net his first.
Emotion poured out of the wing-back, who was elated to score his first goal at Molineux after working exceptionally hard in his cameo.
Wolves’ 3-0 win over Leicester saw Gomes generate attention from the media, as his talent was discussed by journalist Liam Keen.
Speaking on the E&S Wolves Podcast, Keen shared his belief that being ‘underused’ by both O’Neil and Pereira this season has actually been a good thing for Gomes.
“I think this year, albeit he’s been slightly underused a lot more by Gary O’Neil than Vitor Pereira. I do think it will do him the world of good for next season, having this first experience in the Premier League, scoring a couple of goals and finding your place in this squad.”
The Wolves expert continued to celebrate Gomes’ ability to do what several of his teammates have failed to do: find his place in Pereira’s system.
“Other players have not found their place in the system Pereira has,” Keen explained.
“Look at [Carlos] Forbs, [Goncalo] Guedes, Hwang [Hee-chan], Rodrigo Gomes hasn’t played as much, but has found his position, and he’s going to be a wing-back in this system. I think he could be a really exciting player for next year.”
Despite only averaging 31 minutes per game in the Premier League this season, via Sofascore, Gomes has made every appearance count, setting him up nicely for the 2025/26 calendar.
Perfect first season for Gomes in the Premier League
As Keen explained, Gomes has done what others haven’t to cement his place in Pereira’s plans.
There’s a belief that Gomes could battle Hugo Bueno for a starting spot next season, as the duo hope to take advantage of a possible exit for Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Having a player as eager to learn, passionate and patient as the 21-year-old is a win in itself for Wolves, even more so due to his innate quality to play in a back five.
O’Neil left Pereira a jewel in Gomes, who will be one to watch next season after an admirable debut campaign both on and off the pitch.