Well done Nuno – Wolves signing this 24-year-old ace is the right decision and here’s why

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Rohan Sengupta

Why Daniel Podence is a smart signing for Nuno’s Wolves

During the final days of the January transfer window, Wolves completed the signing of winger Daniel Podence from Olympiakos. He has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal at the Molineux, becoming the club’s third January signing after the arrivals of Enzo Loiodice and Leonardo Campana.

Daniel Podence, 24, terminated his contract with Sporting Lisbon in 2018 and joined Olympiakos. He bagged five goals and contributed five assists in 27 appearances for the Greek club this season before joining Nuno Espirito Santo’s Wolves. The winger made his Wolves debut on Saturday in the 0-0 draw with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Daniel Podence during his time at Olympiakos. (Getty Images)
Daniel Podence during his time at Olympiakos. (Getty Images)

The Wanderers have had a good Premier League season until now as they currently sit seventh in the table after the draw with Manchester United. Nuno’s side have qualified for the Europa League round of 32, where they’ll face Spanish outfit Espanyol. To strike a balance between the league and the Europa League, it was important for the Portuguese tactician to strengthen his squad in January.

And Nuno did so by signing three new players, although Patrick Cutrone left Wolves to join Fiorentina on loan last month, six months after signing from AC Milan. Cutrone failed to adapt to the speed of English football and never really convinced Nuno. The Italian was mainly seen as a back-up for Raul Jimenez and Diogo Jota. Following his exit, it was important for Wolves to fill that void.

While Daniel Podence is not a like-to-like replacement for Cutrone, he can help Nuno’s side in various ways. He can play on either flank or as a No.10 and such versatility could come handy for a tactically astute manager like Nuno.

Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo on the sidelines. (Getty Images)
Wolves manager Nuno Espirito Santo on the sidelines. (Getty Images)

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The Wanderers have lacked the creativity to break down sides that sit deep against them. Podence will bring that creative spark into the Wolves midfield, after assisting 14 times during his 18-month stay with Olympiacos.

The Portuguese also brings an eye for goal after scoring 13 times for the Greek giants. Not to forget, Podence also has decent European experience, which will be a plus for Nuno’s side that is aiming to go as far as possible in the Europa League this season.

Verdict

Not only has Podence added quality to Wolves’ attacking ranks but also much-needed depth to their squad. Thus, Nuno and co. have done a smart job by signing the Portuguese ace.