Jhon Arias explains why Wolves move failed to work out

Jhon Arias has admitted it was “almost impossible” to perform consistently at Wolves this season, describing his six-month spell in the Premier League as a difficult but valuable learning experience.

The Colombian midfielder has now completed his move to Palmeiras, arriving in São Paulo on Friday before being unveiled by the Brazilian giants. Speaking at his first press conference, streamed by Globo Esporte, Arias reflected candidly on why things failed to click at Molineux.

Arias joined Wolves in July but managed just one goal during a turbulent campaign that has left the club battling near the relegation zone.

“It’s a different context. The team’s top scorer in the Premier League has two goals – I scored one,” Arias said. “Unfortunately it was a poor season collectively speaking. When you have a poor season, it’s almost impossible to have a good individual performance. I have responsibility as well.”

His comments point to a broader issue rather than personal underperformance alone. Wolves have endured instability, and Arias acknowledged his arrival coincided with challenging circumstances.

“Unfortunately my arrival coincided with an environment that wasn’t ideal. It served as a learning experience. It’s also a foundation to try to do different things.”

Arias revealed Palmeiras had been monitoring his situation for several weeks before the transfer was finalised.

“We had first contact several weeks ago – Palmeiras asked about my conditions. It was a negotiation that was very respectful on Palmeiras’ part. They always respected what I felt. The Wolverhampton situation conditioned the negotiation.”

Family discussions played a key role in the decision.

“We spoke with my family about what was best for my career because I have medium and short-term objectives. We understood that the best thing was to return to Brazil.”

Despite the short-lived spell in England, Arias insisted he has no regrets about moving to Europe at 28.

“Really, I’m very happy to have fulfilled that dream. It’s not easy to arrive in Europe at the age and values I arrived at. Very few players leave at that age for Europe. I’m calm about that part.”

He described the Premier League as demanding both mentally and physically.

“It’s a league that demands a lot mentally and physically. It helped me to have better awareness. These six months prepared me as a player, as a person.”

Arias’ departure leaves Wolves lighter in midfield as they continue their relegation battle under Rob Edwards. His exit highlights the broader challenges the club have faced this season, both structurally and competitively.

However, it remains too early to assess whether the move will ultimately be viewed as a failed gamble or simply unfortunate timing within a difficult campaign.

Arias will now wear the number 11 at Palmeiras and aims to rediscover the form that earned him a move to the Premier League.

For Wolves, attention turns to stabilising results and reshaping their midfield options for the remainder of the season.

Did Wolves mismanage Arias, or was the timing simply wrong?