Wolves sporting director says Pedro Neto was ‘in tears’ after making emotional move to Chelsea
Pedro Neto was left in tears after saying his Wolves goodbyes and didn't want to depart before joining Chelsea.
That's according to the club's sporting director Matt Hobbs, who has lifted the lid on the winger's emotional Molineux exit.
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Neto's £51.4million Stamford Bridge switch was confirmed on Sunday to bring an end to his five-year stay in the Midlands.
But it has been revealed that the 24-year-old reluctantly accepted the Blues' proposal in his quest to challenge for trophies.
Discussing the Portugal international's sale to , Hobbs said: "As hard as it was for us, I think it was probably harder for Pedro.
"Tears all morning at the training ground – I don’t think Pedro wanted to leave Wolverhampton Wanderers, and I’ve spoken to him since and he’ll always love the club.
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"But it felt like an opportunity for him that he couldn’t turn down and a deal for us we couldn’t turn down.
“Pedro gets to go and compete in European football – Chelsea, with the amount of money they spend, have to be under pressure for titles and Champions League football.
"So, he’ll get that opportunity, but nobody should think this was easy for Pedro. For me, it was right for everyone, but also really upsetting for everyone.”
He also remarked: "It’s a hard one to talk about because I was really close to Pedro, and he was such a good person to have around the training ground.
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"Everyone knows the player he is – he’s a world class winger who has been so unlucky with injuries, so we’ll miss him on the pitch obviously, but also around the training ground with his energy and the relationship he had with so many people.
“It was a tough one, but it felt fair because of what Pedro had been through, with the various injuries, and it’s a great opportunity for him.
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"The deal is one that works for us and Pedro, but by no means does it make it any easier."
Meanwhile Neto, who scored 14 goals in 135 games for Wolves, penned a heartfelt message to the club's supporters following his exit.
Taking to , he said: "Hey, Wolves family. This is a tough one for me.
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"After five years of incredible moments, highs, lows, and everything in between, it’s time for me to say goodbye.
"I remember the first time I put on the old gold shirt I was so proud.
"And from that moment, you welcomed me as one of your own. You believed in me, you lifted me up, and together, we created memories that I’ll carry with me forever.
"It wasn’t just about the goals or the victories. It was about the connection we built the love and passion that runs through this club and this city.
"You made me feel like I belonged, and that’s something I’ll never forget. Leaving isn’t easy. But I know this isn’t the end it’s just a new chapter.
"I’ll always carry Wolves in my heart, and I’ll always be grateful for every single one of you who cheered me on, who believed in me, who made me feel at home.
"Thank you, Wolves family, for everything. I’ll miss you, but I know our paths will cross again.
"Until then, I’ll be cheering you on from wherever I am. Once a Wolf, always a Wolf."
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