The wing-back – who is one of five Wolves players to be named in the latest Portugal senior squad for next week’s international fixtures – got his first taste of English football in last weekend’s disappointing defeat to West Ham United, but having won league titles at his previous clubs, knows the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
On swapping Barcelona for Wolverhampton
“First of all, the weather is very different, the city as well, but obviously the club is very good, there is a good training ground and I think I made a good decision by coming here, not only to grow as a player, but also as a person.”
On Wolves’ Portuguese contingent persuading him to join
“Many people influenced me, and I spoke with [Joao] Moutinho, with Ruben [Neves] and other players that play here as well, and they all influenced me. I’m sure they will make my adaptation so much easier.
“This team is so important, not only in the UK, but on an international level, and last year they played really well too.
“I don’t think there’s many restaurants in Wolverhampton or a big Portuguese population around here, but I think it will definitely grow because there are quite a few of us Portuguese players here now.”
✅ Rui Patrício
— Wolves (@Wolves) October 1, 2020
✅ Nélson Semedo
✅ João Moutinho
✅ Rúben Neves
✅ Daniel Podence
🖐 of our squad are called up to the @selecaoportugal national team for their upcoming fixtures. Congratulations, guys.
🇵🇹🐺 https://t.co/DF2fAYRZZx
On bringing title-winning experience to Molineux
“I’ve been in teams which have won plenty of titles and I think that it’s very important to have that positive mentality to play here as well.
“Right now, my focus is on being extra motivated to help the team. This positive mentality will reflect well on how we play and also in the changing room, it is really important. Players like Moutinho are just like that, and only then can we reach our goals.”
On his knowledge of English football
“I’ve always watched English football, but I wouldn’t say I ever focused on teams, I’m more a person who focuses on players, like Cristiano Ronaldo and the other really amazing players. I think my focus has been more towards the players.”
