John Kitolano isn’t having the best time at Molde FK. The 20-year-old joined on a season-long loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers in January, but he’s yet to make a first-team appearance and is currently enduring ‘struggles with his back’, according to Aftenposten.
Kitolano made two appearances for Molde in pre-season, starting in MFK’s friendly with Lillestrøm (March 6) and 3-2 win over Brann (June 8). It wasn’t disclosed whether the left-back featured in behind-closed-door friendlies with Sogndal (May 31) and Kristiansund BK (June 4), but his competitive debut alludes him while he’s on the treatment table.
The new Eliteserien season was postponed in March due to the Covid-19 pandemic but has returned in June. Molde enjoyed a 4-1 opening game win over Aalesunds FK (June 16) but Kitolano didn’t feature due to injury.
Molde’s second game sees them welcome Rosenborg to the Aker Stadion on Saturday, but it remains to be seen whether the 20-year-old will return in time – Kristoffer Haugen is likely to start in his place.
The defending champions have a buying option for Kitolano, so he’ll need regular football over the next six months to stand a chance of turning the move permanent.
He’ll turn 21 in October and has Jonny Otto and Ruben Vinagre for competition back at Wolves, so Kitolano’s future looks away from the Midlands.
