Wolverhampton Wanderers are moving quickly to appoint Portuguese coach Vítor Pereira as their new head coach after parting ways with Gary O’Neil. Pereira, currently managing Al-Shabab in the Saudi Pro League, has an impressive track record, having won domestic titles in Greece, Portugal, and China. The club is expected to activate Pereira’s release clause to secure his services.
The decision to dismiss O’Neil came in the wake of a stoppage-time defeat at home to Ipswich, leaving Wolves in 19th place in the Premier League. They are five points adrift of safety and have the league’s worst defensive record, conceding 40 goals this season. Despite being handed a new contract in August, O’Neil’s tenure has been marred by poor results, culminating in four consecutive defeats.
Wolves chairman Jeff Shi expressed gratitude for O’Neil’s efforts but acknowledged the need for change. The club’s next league match against Leicester, a key relegation rival, adds urgency to the search for a replacement. Pereira is understood to be eager to take on the role, and Wolves are hopeful of finalizing the appointment swiftly.
O’Neil’s departure marks the latest chapter in a turbulent period for Wolves. The club has struggled to find stability since the sacking of Bruno Lage in October 2022, which led to a prolonged search for a successor. Julen Lopetegui was eventually appointed but left before the start of the current season due to disagreements over transfer strategy. O’Neil stepped in and guided Wolves to a 14th-place finish last season, achieving notable victories over Chelsea, Tottenham, and Manchester City. However, the lack of investment in the squad has taken its toll.
Over the past few years, Wolves have raised over £200 million through player sales, with key departures including Matheus Nunes, Rúben Neves, Conor Coady, and Raúl Jiménez. This summer, the exodus continued with Maximilian Kilman and Pedro Neto leaving the club. The loss of such talent has left the squad depleted, and O’Neil has struggled to fill the gaps, leading to growing discontent among supporters.
Fans have criticized O’Neil’s tactics, particularly since an FA Cup quarter-final defeat to Coventry in March. Defensive frailties have been a recurring issue, with Wolves conceding 20 goals from set pieces this season. Morale has also been a concern, with tensions flaring on and off the pitch. Following the defeat to Ipswich, left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri was involved in a heated argument with teammate Craig Dawson. Additionally, midfielder Mario Lemina was stripped of the captaincy after a clash with assistant coach Shaun Derry during a recent loss to West Ham.
The club’s leadership is determined to avoid a repeat of the uncertainty that followed previous managerial changes. Graham Potter, David Moyes, and Carlos Corberán were all considered as potential candidates before Wolves turned their attention to Pereira. The Portuguese coach’s experience and track record make him an appealing choice as the club seeks to turn their season around.
Wolves’ struggles this season highlight the challenges of competing in the Premier League without sufficient reinforcements. The team’s defensive issues and lack of depth have been exposed, leaving them in a precarious position. The appointment of Pereira, if finalized, represents a crucial step in their bid to revive their fortunes and secure their top-flight status.
