Expert view | Nelson Semedo

Wolves can expect Nelson Semedo to use his pace and attacking instincts to good effect in Nuno Espirito Santo’s system, according to L'esportiu de Catalunya’s Barcelona journalist, Ferran Correas.

Ferran caught up with wolves.co.uk following Nelson Semedo’s switch from the Nou Camp to Molineux and believes the Portuguese will be a big addition to Wolves’ group.

Ferran, what was the reaction to Semedo’s transfer in Barcelona?

“The feeling is that FC Barcelona needed the money, which is why they sold Semedo, not because of his quality. Semedo was a starter on the right-hand side and has now gone to a very good team in Wolves.”

How would you assess his three years at Barcelona?

“I think they were good. He has been a starter in some important games but has alternated with Sergi Roberto many times. By the end, he was the victim of a bad season for the entire team, but he had a good relationship with the fans and interacted well with them. He won two leagues and a cup and has been important in the defence of Barcelona. He has been very offensive and has defended the space of Lionel Messi.”

What type of player can Wolves fans expect from Semedo?

“Semedo is a wide defender and is very offensive. He reaches the line of attack well, is very fast, and knows how to defend as well. He is regularly supportive of attacks. He can give assists in every game, whereas goals, he scored two in three years, but Semedo began his career playing as a striker, which is why he pushes up a lot. It was at Benfica where he began to play defence. At Barca he would attack but had little cover defensively because Barca play very attacking football.”

What sort of character is he off the pitch?

“Semedo is a very good person and was much loved in the locker room. Ter Stegen gave him an emotional farewell when he left. Semedo liked to walk around the city of Barcelona and would eat at the Boqueria Market.”

How well will he suit playing wing-back at Wolves, rather than full-back?

“I think that Semedo is a full-back, but he can play wing-back. At Barca he even played one game in central defence. I think he will adapt well because his speed helps him and he is a very disciplined player.”

How much of a positive relationship could he and Adama Traore form on the right?

“I think a good one because at Barca he has understood how to play with Messi. Barca fans followed Wolves through Adama, and now also for Semedo. Fans followed Wolves in the Europa League against Espanyol.”

Finally, what can Semedo achieve at Wolves?

“I think he will be an important player for Wolves because Nuno knows him well. I hope we see Wolves in Europe again next season.”

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