Premier League Preview – Wolves
A last minute change of manager never looks good on the eve of a new season. Does this spell trouble for Wolves?
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The summer so far…
Tough times at Molineux. Julen Lopetegui has left on the eve of the season, and former Bournemouth boss Gary O’Neil has been parachuted in just five days before their season opener at Manchester United. O’Neil did a fantastic job against the odds last season and will be targeting a similar run at Wolves.
In terms of personnel, Rúben Neves, João Moutinho, Adama Traoré and Raúl Jiménez have all left the club as Wolves battle to tame financial fair play constraints. Those same constraints have caused the West Midlands side to miss out on the likes of Alex Scott, who has joined Bournemouth, Nico Elvedi and Aaron Cresswell. Matt Doherty is the only outfield signing to date, and more will be added if some funds can be raised.
Player to watch…
After spells away at Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid, Matt Doherty has cemented himself as a club legend with his return on a free transfer this summer. At 31 the Ireland international will be one of the more senior players in the dressing room and new manager Gary O’Neil will be hoping that the right-back can show some much-needed leadership in the Wolves team.
Kit Watch
Wolves may have some financial troubles away from the pitch, but at least they’ll be looking good in this fetching red-away kit. 4.5/5
Predicted Finish – 19th
Wolves lost a bunch of proven Premier League campaigners this summer, and without any clear replacements on the horizon, you have to fear for the West Midlands team. Add in that they have lost Julen Lopetegui and we are predicting relegation for Wolves.