When Burnley visited Molineux back in December, it signalled the turning point in the Wolves career of Pablo Sarabia, and now he goes into the return fixture as a key cog for Gary O’Neil.
The Spaniard was handed a first start in ten matches in the 1-0 win, and since then has started all but one Premier League match, regularly contributing with goals and assists. In recent weeks Sarabia, who was recalled to the Spain squad last month, has been the club’s only senior attacker and has provided a calm and experienced head for the young colleagues around him, providing a new experience in what is turning out to be an enjoyable first full season in the Premier League.
On thriving in the Premier League
“I love football. I’m happiest when I have a ball at my feet – I enjoy football so much. The pace of the Premier League is on another level to the other leagues. Physically, it’s the best league – all the players are at such a high level and play at such a high intensity. I enjoy it a lot and I’m getting more and more used to the league – I’m enjoying playing so much more.
“When I signed here, I knew that I wanted to be an important player here and I want to carry on being a really important part of this club, as they gave me an opportunity to be here. They treat me like family. I think that’s the most important thing and I will give my all for them until the last day. That’s what I have done from the start.”
On passing a year at Wolves
“I’m feeling better and better. It was difficult for me to adapt to the Premier League because the pace is so different here compared to other leagues. Personally, it was tough for me because I was going through some changes. It was a really difficult time when I was adapting here but after a few months I felt a lot more settled and more at home. This is very important when it comes to being able to perform on the pitch.
“I feel really good. I would say I’m at my best level both on and off the pitch. I know that I can play even better though as I’m getting to know the league more and more. I know I’m capable of more playing in the Premier League.”
Happy Wolves anniversary, @Pablosarabia92!
— Wolves (@Wolves) January 17, 2024
Enjoy all 8️⃣ of his assists so far this campaign 🪄 pic.twitter.com/GE0W7YcAdi
On Saturday’s disappointment
“It’s a difficult time for us with injuries – it’s not just about the number of them, it’s the fact they’re in the same position. We’re really short so we have players playing out of position. Despite all this, we played well for the first 30 minutes, controlling the game and creating chances.
“They scored two goals at a critical time when we were actually playing better, but that’s football. You have to be decisive in both areas of the pitch and we weren’t decisive in their area the other day. We didn’t score a goal and that’s why the game went in their favour.”
On turning attention to Burnley
“It’s a very difficult ground and they will make things tough for us. We have our ideas – we know what we need to do. We need to play at our best level if we want to go home with three points. We must believe in our manager and all our players if we want to go there and put in a good performance.”
