Joao Gomes believes he is improving as a footballer with each day he spends at Wolves having quickly adapted his game since he arrived at the club from Brazil in January.
The midfielder has been a constant presence in the Premier League for the Old Gold this season and displayed his quality to help Wolves to a win on the road against Everton last weekend.
But with the team due to head to south London to take on Crystal Palace this Sunday – which will see him reunite with former Flamengo teammate Matheus Franca who joined the Eagles in early August – Gomes feels the squad’s positive attitude off the pitch will translate onto it as they look to make it three wins on the bounce.
On looking for successive Premier League wins
“For us, it is obviously always great to get that win. But for me, it wasn’t a great game on a technical level, but these three points were massive for us and our goal is to improve each day.
“Of course, some ways will be better than others, others will be worse but at the end of the day, those three points are what we have to focus on so I’m really happy with those and hope to keep the victory streak going since that’s what really matters.
“For me, I think it is always good to surround yourself with that positive mindset. That’s the key and what will make the difference.
“The more wins we have, the more positive our environment will be and this is the only way moving forward. If I were to sum up what needs to happen in one word, that word would be ‘victory’.”
On adapting to Wolverhampton
“It was a radical change because I left Rio with 38 degrees weather and landed in the UK with 0 degrees weather. Brazil was very sunny and here it’s very cold and there are other things to consider such as family and friends who are hard to leave behind.
“But my wife, who is here with me, is instrumental. She is the one who gives me all the support to disconnect as soon as I get on the pitch and focus solely on my work which is what I came here to do.
“I would say these six months made all the difference. When I first arrived, I didn’t know a single English word - absolutely none. But little by little, you are taught the language and learn to listen to everyone around you and I think that has helped me improve as an individual and to fully adjust.
“My English is not the best yet but I’m studying every day but most of the time.”
On playing in the Premier League
“I think Brazilian football is very different from English football. It’s a lot more fast-paced, the kicks and tactics are on the spot decisions you make.
“When I first played, I was able to score because it was almost as if a weight was lifted off my shoulders. I definitely feel that pressure off me. Nowadays, I can speak English a little more, but I am slowly getting there.
“But I think that the way I play goes hand in hand with the League’s pace. The matches are more physical, there’s more fight over the ball, so I think I was born to play here.”
Off the bar 😫
— Wolves (@Wolves) August 5, 2023
Gomes looks for goal from the edge of the box but sees his powerful effort strike the crossbar and bounce clear.#COYW pic.twitter.com/bTqs7XBpyS
On facing Crystal Palace
“I’m very happy to face this team next in the league, but all games are difficult games and have something special about them.
“For me, it will be a great opportunity to step up and face that challenge ahead because whether we like it or not, they will fight for that win so I hope we can play well and take home the win with those three points which is what really matters.”
On reuniting with Franca
“I played in the main team [at Flamengo] and he went from U20 to the main team. He has always been a kind-hearted and respectful player, so I think he has all the qualities to do well here.
“We also share quite a few things since we’re both fast players and he’s really strong. I have no doubt in my mind that he will do well.
“I’m not the right person to give him advice. I always go with what I feel will work and if I start advising people, it won’t lead anywhere. The less you ask me, the better, because I play as I go so I’m not the best at giving advice!”
