A former Wolves player has emerged as a surprise nominee for the prestigious 2024 Ballon d’Or award, bringing Molineux back into the spotlight for the first time since Billy Wright’s memorable second-place finish back in 1957, falling behind Alfredo Di Stefano.
Among the contenders is former Wolves midfielder Vitinha, who spent the 2020/21 season on loan at the club from Porto before embarking on a successful journey across Europe, eventually landing at PSG. Despite his struggles to shine in Wolverhampton due to limited opportunities under Nuno Santo’s management, Vitinha has found his rhythm on the continental stage, blossoming into one of Ligue 1’s finest midfielders under the guidance of Luis Enrique in a three-man midfield setup.
Interestingly, another Midlands connection surfaces on the Ballon d’Or shortlist in the form of PSG’s rising star Jude Bellingham, who made a significant impact during his debut season at Real Madrid and is viewed as one of the top contenders for the prestigious award.
The presence of these two former Midlands players on the Ballon d’Or shortlist not only highlights their individual accomplishments but also sheds light on the talent that once graced the Molineux pitch, offering a fresh narrative for the Wolves faithful to follow with anticipation and pride.
Towards the conclusion of his tenure with Wolves, Vitinha was limited to just two starts in central midfield, as the Portuguese talent struggled to adapt to the physical demands of the Premier League.
Following Nuno’s departure, Bruno Lage assumed managerial duties at Wolverhampton Wanderers, opting not to secure Vitinha permanently for a modest fee of £17m. Despite scoring a solitary goal during his time at the club, Vitinha’s understated impact proved pivotal in shaping his career trajectory, culminating in a Ballon d’Or nomination, a remarkable milestone as acknowledged by the player himself.
In a candid conversation with RMC Sport, Vitinha expressed gratitude for his experience at Wolves, acknowledging the personal and professional growth it facilitated.
“I may not have made a significant mark, having had limited opportunities at Wolves, but I consider it a valuable chapter in my journey. It provided me with invaluable lessons and insights, both on and off the pitch, enriching my career and pushing me beyond my comfort zone into unfamiliar territories.”
Despite his modest contributions on the field, Vitinha’s memorable goal against Chorley in the FA Cup remains a cherished moment for Wolves and their supporters. The trajectory of his career has taken a remarkable turn since then, culminating in a prestigious Ballon d’Or nomination, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
