AliousWolves are set to face Blackburn Rovers in the FA Cup fourth round on Sunday, with hopes of advancing further in the competition. The squad will feature two fresh additions following the deadline day signings of Marshall Munetsi from Reims and Nasser Djiga from Red Star Belgrade. Djiga strengthens the defense as a center-back option, while Munetsi brings versatility to the midfield.
With Wolves showing signs of securing their Premier League status, sporting director Matt Hobbs has expressed confidence in Djiga’s potential. However, Vitor Pereira has highlighted another player he believes is pivotal to Wolves’ success—and it’s not Matheus Cunha.
### **Vitor Pereira Reveals Why Toti Gomes Is Vital for Wolves**
While Matheus Cunha’s new contract was a major boost, especially given his 11 Premier League goals this season, Pereira insists that Toti Gomes holds an equally crucial role, particularly on the defensive end. Gomes’ standout performance in Wolves’ recent 2-0 victory over Aston Villa caught the manager’s attention, as he seamlessly slotted into the left center-back position, allowing Emmanuel Agbadou to take on a more central defensive role.
Pereira emphasized the significance of having a natural left-footer like Toti on the left side of defense.
> “The left foot is very important for us,” Pereira explained. “Playing on the left with a left foot offers better balance. When you have a right-footer on that side, it disrupts the defensive structure because the angles and body positioning aren’t as natural. It affects how you defend one-on-one situations and how quickly you can transition into attack.”
Pereira further elaborated that having Toti close to left wing-back Rayan Aït-Nouri improves defensive coverage and fluidity when building from the back.
> “When we build from the left, the first touch with the left foot helps open up the play, creating better passing lanes and solutions. Even when we’re under pressure, having that natural left-footed outlet gives us more control.”
### **Toti Gomes’ Impressive Record Under Pereira**
Toti’s contributions go beyond tactical advantages. Under Pereira, Wolves have kept clean sheets in all three Premier League matches Toti has featured in this season. This marks a significant turnaround from earlier in the campaign when he struggled in a traditional back-four setup under former manager Gary O’Neil.
In a three-man defense, Toti thrives, showcasing defensive solidity, improved decision-making, and positional awareness. His ability to read the game, combined with the tactical benefits of his left-footedness, has made him an indispensable part of Pereira’s defensive setup.
As Wolves prepare for their FA Cup clash against Blackburn, Toti’s form and influence could be the key to both their cup ambitions and Premier League stability.
Alious
