Sporting Lisbon’s ongoing crisis with their current players has hit another low as Rui Patricio recently departed for a free transfer to Wolves. The 30-year-old keeper terminated his contract with the Portuguese outfit following the training ground assault on the club’s players by their very own fans.
A number of players from the side are expected to follow into the shoes of Patricio while other European outfits capitalize on the situation. This is Nuno Espirito Santo’s third signing in the 2018 summer window after the permanent arrival of Willy Boly from FC Porto and Raul Jimenez from Benfica on a season-long loan.
The Wanders continue to break down traditional barriers with their heavy investment policy and a sharp eye for the right players. Patricio could potentially become their leading man at the back with John Ruddy now turning 31.
The Englishman did well at the Molineux to see his side through an almost uncontested promotion run to the Premier League. However, former Norwich City shot-stopper is not one of the most prolific names in the country while Patricio is a cemented starter for the Portugal national side.
The latter has 70 caps to his name for the Navigators and is currently representing the side in the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He has heaps of top-flight experience with Porto and has racked up over 450 appearances for the side.
Patricio is also a leader who managed 23 clean sheets in his 56 all around appearances last term. The 30-year-old is at the peak of his footballing career and deserves a place in one of Europe’s most competitive proving grounds.
At 6 feet 2 inches, Patricio is one of the most athletic figures in his position. We got to witness the brilliance of the shot-stopper in the 2016 Euro Cup when he stopped Jakub Blaszczykowski’s penalty attempt in the semifinals to see his team through a 5-3 win.
Wolves have already put together a young squad through the financial backing provided by FOSUN International and with Nuno Santo’s guidance as head coach. The team are still looking for more additions to hit the ground running on their return to the English top-flight.
Patricio will surely secure the backline and will also be able to lead the side from the back, even though Danny Batth is the chosen captain.
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This is one of a kind coup by the Molineux-based outfit and could produce heavy returns in the coming years.
