What Wolves Need to Avoid a Relegation Fight
Wolverhampton Wanderers have once again managed to stay up in the Premier League. As summer approaches, however, the squad is already looking worse off. Selling key players has been good for the club’s finances, but it leaves the team dangerously thin in crucial areas. Without smart recruitment and a clear tactical plan, Wolves risk being dragged into a relegation fight next season.
First things first, Wolves need a replacement for Matheus Cunha. Cunha was vital to the team’s success this past season, playing with energy, creativity, and composure in the final third. He often carried the attack, and his absence will leave a big hole in the squad. Right now, there is speculation around a move for 23-year-old Evann Guessand from Nice, with a potential deal rumored to be worth around £25 million. Guessand is a phenomenal young talent with loads of potential, but he will have big shoes to fill. Expecting him to immediately replicate Cunha’s influence is a huge ask, especially as he adjusts to the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
Next on the list, Wolves must replace Rayan Aït-Nouri. With his move to Manchester City all but finalized, the young left-back is expected to bring in around £35-40 million. Aït-Nouri was one of Wolves’ standout performers this season, contributing not only defensively but also in attack, recording four goals and seven assists. His ability to push forward and create chances was key to the team’s style of play. To make matters worse, Nelson Semedo is also likely to depart, leaving the defense dangerously thin. As it stands, Matt Doherty and this season’s newcomer Emmanuel Agbadou would form the back line. With no concrete rumors about defensive reinforcements, Wolves will need to act fast to bring in defenders who fit the team’s style and can adapt quickly to Pereira's system.
Another key focus will be fully incorporating Jørgen Strand Larsen into the squad and getting Hwang Hee-chan back to full health. Strand Larsen looked to be in good form throughout the season and has proven to be a strong permanent addition to the team. As it stands, he will likely be Wolves’ main man up front heading into the new campaign. Likewise, when Hwang Hee-chan was fit, he showed excellent form and provided good play in the final third. New signing Marshall Munetsi, who joined this past season, also impressed in limited appearances and will surely find his way into the rotation among these attacking options. With Larsen, Hwang, and Munesti bringing valuable experience to the front line, they can also serve as role models for Evann Guessand. Beyond just contributing goals, they can help ease Guessand’s transition into the squad and the Premier League, offering guidance both on and off the pitch.
Lastly, the leadership of Vítor Pereira will be pivotal in steering Wolves away from another relegation battle. Since his appointment in December 2024, Pereira has guided the team from 19th place to a secure 16th-place finish. Under his guidance, Wolves achieved a six-match winning streak, their longest in the Premier League since 1970, and he was deservedly named Premier League Manager of the Month for April 2025. The squad trusted him this season, and it paid off with results. Next year, both the returning players and new signings will need to put their trust in him once again if Wolves are to stay up.
Wolves have work to do this summer. Key players need replacing, and the squad needs strengthening across the pitch. With smart signings and full belief in Vítor Pereira’s vision, Wolves can stay clear of the drop. The foundation is there, now it’s time to build on it.
