If Joao Gomes leaves Wolves this summer, he will go with the thanks of supporters who know exactly what they are losing.
In a season that has too often lacked control, composure and fight, Gomes has been one of the few constants.
Since arriving from Flamengo in January 2023, he has brought urgency, aggression and heart to Wolves' midfield. He did not need long to settle. He looked like a Wolves player almost from the start.
The numbers show just how much he has carried.
Premier League statistics show Gomes is joint-third for the number of duels won this season (184). Opta have him fourth for total tackles in the Premier League with 85. Of the leading 10 players in that metric, Gomes has the third-best percentage for tackles won (64.7%).
Those figures underline how much defensive work he gets through, often in a side that has left him with far too much to do.
Of course, Gomes plays on the edge. He is second for fouls committed this season. But that is part of the package. He is not a player who hides. He gets stuck in, takes responsibility and tries to shift momentum when Wolves need a spark.
That is why his absence would be felt on so many fronts.
Wolves would miss his ball-winning ability, his energy and his drive. They would miss the way he covers ground, breaks up attacks and drags the midfield into the fight. Just as importantly, they would miss his attitude. Even in difficult spells, Gomes has never looked like a player going through the motions, he always gives 100%.
There is also an emotional side to this. Supporters took to him because he played with total commitment and because he seemed to understand what effort in a Wolves shirt should look like. Taking on the number eight shirt after Ruben Neves was no small thing, but Gomes has worn it with pride.
If he goes, Wolves will not just lose a very good midfielder. They will lose spirit, steel and a player who has truly set the standard this season.
Find more from Dazzling Dave at Always Wolves
