It’s not often that Wolves can boast a world-class player or a Ballon d’Or contender, but one of their former stars has continued his rise to become recognised among the very best in the game.
In the past, the club has had a few players nearing world-class status, including Ruben Neves, Joao Moutinho, and Matheus Cunha.
However, on this occasion, it was a player who was rarely given a chance at Molineux who has truly cemented his reputation as one of the best players in the world.
Wolves declined the opportunity to sign Vitinha permanently following his loan spell from Porto, when former manager Nuno Espirito Santo was still in the dugout.
Despite this, the 25-year-old’s performances on the international stage and at club level have captured the attention of football fans worldwide.
Vitinha finished third in Ballon d’Or rankings
The former Wolves midfielder had tipped himself to challenge for the Ballon d’Or award after an outstanding season with Paris Saint-Germain.
At the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Vitinha finished third behind winner Ousmane Dembele and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
However, his loan spell at Wolves was a frustrating period in his career, as he struggled to break into the team ahead of the established Neves and Moutinho partnership.
Wolves fans will still remember his brilliant goal against Chorley, which offered a glimpse of his world-class potential.
Since leaving Molineux, he has starred in a Champions League final, helping PSG lift the trophy, and played a key role in Portugal’s Nations League triumph.
Vitinha’s numbers at Wolves
Vitinha’s time at Wolves was brief, making only a handful of starts, largely due to injuries within the squad.
At just 20 years old, he was inexperienced and perhaps not physically ready for the demands of Premier League football.
Despite this, he remained a well-liked figure in the dressing room, earning praise from teammates for his professionalism.
| Appearances | 22 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
Former Wolves goalkeeper John Ruddy even sent him a heartfelt message after the Champions League final at the end of last season.
Yet, for Wolves, it was another missed opportunity, as the club watched another talented star slip through their fingers.