Wolves wing-back Rayan Ait-Nouri sits down to discuss how he mentally copes with the challenges of Premier League football each week.
Mentally preparing for a game…
“I listen to music and relax, because football is a pleasure, and I want to do my best on the pitch. I don’t feel pressure, I just play.”
Recovering from setbacks…
“I’ll speak with my family, and they help me a lot. Sometimes it’s good for your head and your mentality to be close to your family. They can speak about things other than football to take me away from it.”
Staying level-headed after positives…
“When we win, I’m very happy in the moment, but after I need to relax so I’m focused on the next game, because it’s each one is very important.”
Beginning match preparations…
“I’m in the zone maybe 30 minutes before the game. When I go to the warm up, I’m focused on the game, but before then I’m very relaxed.”
Cutting off afterwards…
“If I have a good game or bad game, I’m the same. If I have a good game, I’ll think of other things, but after a bad game I want to take my mind off it. When I take a shower and leave the stadium, I switch off. Every time, I’m enjoying myself.”
What has changed…
“I’ve always had the same mentality. When I was younger, I played football because it was my passion, and sometimes I know I need to take football seriously, but because it’s my passion, I don’t feel pressure, and I’ve always been like this.”
This article originally featured in Wolves' official 2024/25 matchday programme. Last season's programmes are still available to purchase online through retailers Curtis Sports.
