SHARE

There’s a heartfelt story unfolding around Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder João Gomes, who is turning a personal challenge into a mission to help others.

The 24-year-old, who came through the ranks at Flamengo, is preparing to launch a speech and language institute in Brazil aimed at supporting people with communication difficulties, according to an interview for Globo Esporte

Gomes, who has publicly opened up about his experience with stuttering, says the initiative will focus not only on speech disorders, but also on issues like shyness and verbal expression more broadly.

“Soon my institute will be launched to support people who have communication difficulties, whether it’s stuttering, like in my case, or shyness and other situations,” he said.

The project comes at a moment when Gomes is enjoying the best season of his career. In his third year at the club, he has become a vital figure for Wolves under manager Vítor Pereira. 

Gomes has played 36 matches in the 2024/25 campaign – all as a starter – with four goals and two assists. His influence, however, goes far beyond the attacking numbers.

As Globo Esporte highlighted earlier this year, he leads the team in tackles (99), is second in interceptions (25), and ranks among the top two players for minutes played, successful duels, and passing accuracy. 

When Wolves announced his contract renewal through to 2030, Vítor Pereira made a point of highlighting his importance.

“João is a team player. He always gives 100% in training and matches, and he has the quality to help us take the next step. He defends, attacks, and supports his teammates – that’s what we need at Wolves. He’s crucial, runs the full 90 minutes, and has huge potential,” said the Portuguese manager.

Once a young player who avoided cameras due to his stutter, João Gomes is now leading by example on and off the pitch, a key player for Wolves and a source of inspiration far beyond football.