Colombia Coach: Arias' Departure from Wolves Was the Right Move for His World Cup Chances
Wolves couldn't get the best out of him — but Colombia's coach is banking on Palmeiras to revive Arias before the World Cup.
The unsuccessful spell in England is behind him — and Colombia's coach couldn't be happier.
Jhon Arias' time at Wolverhampton Wanderers didn't go to plan. One goal in 23 Premier League appearances, near-certain relegation from the division, and a player clearly not at his best. But his €25 million move to Palmeiras in January may have saved his World Cup summer.
Colombia coach Néstor Lorenzo didn't hide his relief. "Arias wasn't going to play at Wolves — he went to Palmeiras to play, to have rhythm, to be happy," he told AS Colombia. "That means he can get back to his best level and be with us in top form."
Back in Brazil — the environment where he first caught Colombia's eye — Arias now has a real chance of earning his place on the plane to North America.