Rui Patricio was a big part of the early success that Wolves had in the Premier League, including a quarterfinal run in the Europa League.
The Portuguese goalkeeper signed for the club back in 2018 for £16 million, and it was a big coup for a newly promoted side like the Old Gold to scoop up the signature of a ‘keeper of Patricio’s stature.
The relationship between Wolves and super agent Jorge Mendes played a big part in the transfer, and it was one of many deals of this nature that had made the Wanderers a staple in the Premier League for many years.
That connection is still prevalent at the club, with Fer Lopez the latest of Mendes’ clients joining Wolves. However, that has not been much of a success, with the Spaniard already linked with a move away.
Now, Patricio is hanging up his boots and gloves after he announced his retirement from the game.
And Wolves fans have an interesting theory about the 37-year-old and this current Wolves side.
Rui Patricio confirms his retirement from football 🤝
Wolves fans believe Rui Patricio could still play for them now
At 37 years of age, Rui Patricio has achieved a lot in his career. The pinnacle for him would no doubt be the UEFA EURO 2016 win with his nation.
However, while his trophy cabinet lay empty at Molineux, his heroics between the sticks for the Old Gold will be fondly remembered by supporters.
With the Portuguese man in goal, the Wanderers finished in 7th place in back-to-back seasons, and the threat of relegation was a distant fear.
A big difference to the status of the club at the moment.
Wolves fans have now been reacting to the announcement of his retirement, and there is a theory about his qualities floating around on X, formerly known as Twitter.
One Wolves fan said, “Could still do a job for us now.
Meanwhile, another stated, “Does he fancy a stint in the championship next season?”
Additionally, a different supporter said, “Bring him back. He can’t be done yet.”
And that was followed up by a fan saying, “He’d start for us now. What a keeper.”
Fill in the blank: The one former Wolves player I wish could return to the club is _________
You can only choose one to instantly improve this current Wolves team 👀
Someone else said, “It’d be a pleasure to take him back as well.”
That sentiment was backed up by a fan stating, “What a great GK he was. Would still start now tbh…”
While another reacted by commenting, “Could still be better than what we have.”
And that consensus was summed up by one supporter simply saying, “Get him back.”
Wolves are in the market for a goalkeeper
Wolves are looking for a goalkeeper based on reports.
The Old Gold have been linked with moves to two standout options over the last couple of months. They have been linked with Lazio shot-stopper Christos Mandas, with the Greek possibly being available for just £6 million.
Additionally, a move for Manchester City’s goalkeeper James Trafford has been touted. The Englishman has barely featured for the Citizens ever since Gianluigi Donnarumma was signed, with the Italian becoming Pep Guardiola’s number one.
It remains to be seen if a move does come to fruition, with Sam Johnstone and Jose Sa not shining in the best of lights this season.
Any shot-stopper arriving will certainly hope to have the same level of impact that Rui Patricio once had for Wolves.
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