As the rumours of Rafa Silva’s departure from Benfica grow, the player’s situation at Estádio da Luz doesn’t seem to get any better.
Recently linked to Wolves, the midfielder has been struggling to get game time at the Lisbon side, where he hasn’t been able to impress since his arrival in 2016.
Silva stayed out of Benfica’s last five league games, missing the last four Champions League clashes as well. That’s why manager Rui Vitória was asked about the situation in a press conference yesterday.
“We have lot of very balanced players in the attack, where Rafa plays. I have to be balanced and fair in the decision and, according to my justice, those who go on the pitch are the ones who gave the most guarantees,” said Vitória (via A Bola).
“If Rafa didn’t come in here or there it was because at the time the conditions to play were not met and has nothing to do with the value of the player. Rafa hasn’t been able to cement his place yet, so he has to work and wait for the opportunity.”
Sport Witness recently tried to speak to Rafa Silva’s agent Antonio Araujo about Wolves claims, but the representative made it clear that he’s not keen on teasing with a transfer.
“I will not comment on that. Even because we are in a moment of great definition and do not intend to comment anything to any question,” Antonio Araujo told Sport Witness last month.
The situation now only seems to favour a January move, whether a permanent transfer or a loan deal, as mentioned by the Portuguese press.
So it’s safe to say that Wolves are serious contenders if the reports are to be believed. Playing in England has become a general dream for Portuguese players, and the recent success of compatriots at Wolves would certainly attract Silva.
However, from the start it’s seemed that Wolves were chosen as a potential destination, rather than the Championship club choosing Rafa Silva. Whilst that certainly doesn’t rule out a move, the likelihood is that Wolves aren’t actively pushing for it right now.
