Can This PL Return Whip Wolves Back Into Shape?
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Can This PL Return Whip Wolves Back Into Shape?

Can Former Prem Starlet Whip Wolves Back Into Shape?

Wolves' season could not get any worse, and lucky for them, an angel has fallen from heaven to try and salvage something from their long stint at the bottom of the table.

If you haven't guessed already, Wolves are hoping to sign Marseille midfielder Angel Gomes on loan before the transfer window closes. The initial loan will cost Wolves €1m, and they will have an option to buy the midfielder come the end of the season for €7m, no matter where Wolves finish in the league.

The 25-year-old only joined Ligue 1 side Marseille in the summer after leaving Lille on a free, and was a regular under Roberto De Zerbi at the beginning of the season. However, he has since fallen down the pecking order and is therefore making his return to the Premier League.

It was only five years ago that Gomes decided to leave his dream of playing regular football for Manchester United and instead found a new home in France.

Since then, he has had a fairly steady career, but those that once regarded him as a wonderkid are waiting for more from the midfielder.

A move to Wolves could prove to be the right decision, or perhaps one that could backfire.

What Gomes Will Bring

One thing that Gomes will contribute straight away to Wolves is technicality and control in the midfield, both things that have been missing all season. Wolves' inability to create many chances has left them goalless in countless matches this season and Gomes is creative with the ball at his feet and finds a teammate with ease.

His forward play is one of his best talents, but also his adaptability.

He can play anywhere across the midfield, whether that is in the 10, as a box-to-box midfielder or as a deep-lying midfielder. This will give Rob Edwards more options in how he would like to use Gomes in his system, which has often seen a flat midfield three.

This season, Gomes has contributed with four goals and an assist in 20 games. However, don't let the numbers throw you off, as Gomes' game doesn't rely on stats and end product. What Wolves need is someone that is going to progress the play forward, which Gomes is renowned for.

Don't let his 5 ft 6 height fool you, as Gomes is incredibly nifty but still holds his weight in midfield. He has something to prove at this level as he left the league as a boy and is returning as a man. His game has elevated since his United days, and he will be hoping to prove the Red Devils wrong in letting him leave.

Why Wolves?

The understanding is that Gomes wants a return to the Premier League, and Wolves can guarantee that with lots of game time. Yet, Wolves sit 18 points adrift from 17th-place Nottingham Forest, and whilst they have improved in recent weeks, it is a huge task to survive the inevitable.

This would mean if the deal became permanent, Gomes would be finding himself playing Championship football, which is way below his pay grade.

It could be that Gomes wants a chance for other Premier League clubs to see his talents and perhaps secure a move away in the summer, if Wolves get relegated and the price is right, of course.

What Wolves need is a bit of stability and a chance to not embarrass themselves. A good end to the season could be all the difference if they return to the Premier League next season. Hopefully, Gomes can contribute right away and fill the hole that was never replaced when Rúben Neves left the club.

A Point To Prove

Wolves' return to the Championship isn't set in stone yet, so Wolves realistically can still survive, but Gomes' first thought won't be about survival. Putting his name back in the spotlight would be crucial for Gomes, who is still young at 25 and has room to grow into a better player.

Playing for a club struggling for results could have a positive impact on Gomes, and he can make the team his own well-oiled machine that runs through him.

However, if Wolves do go down, then the Championship superteam has already begun, and we would be looking at a monster season for Gomes.

Benji Kosartiyer
Journalist

Archie Payne

Freelance Football Writer

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