Last month saw the launch of the first ever independent Supporters Trust at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Wolves 1877 Trust
Rui Patricio looks set to seal move to AS Roma
Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Rui Patricio looks set to seal a move away from Molineux this summer as AS Roma close in on the Portuguese shot-stopper’s signature. Talking Wolves understands that it’s a matter of when not if for the deal in question.
There have been various reports in Italy that suggest that personal terms between Patricio and Roma have been agreed but both clubs were still yet to agree on a fee. Wolves reportedly value Patricio at between €10-15 million with Roma reportedly only tabling €6 million plus add-ons. New Roma head coach Jose Mourinho has long been an admirer of Patricio and could finally land his man once the Euro’s have finished.
Wolves are keen to get the 33-year-old off the wage bill, along with Joao Moutinho who are both among the top earners at the club, earning reportedly in the region of £85,000+ per week. Patricio, who signed from Sporting Clube De Portugal back in 2018 and has made 118 appearances for the club.
Wolves will now turn their attention towards another Portuguese shot stopper in Jose Sa. Sa is said to be close to sealing a move to Molineux and is being reported by a number of news outlets in Greece. Sports journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos has reported that Jose Sa will travel from Austria to England to complete his medical ahead of his move to Wolves. The 6ft 4inch Sa has been a mainstay in the Olympiacos goal since he made his loan move from Porto a permanent one in 2019. It’s believed Wolves could pay between £8-10m for Sa.
Wolves have also held interest in other goalkeepers such as Bartłomiej Drągowski and could still make a move for him but the competition for Dragowski’s signature is said to be fierce.
Catch up on the latest batch of transfer rumours over on our YouTube channel below
Matthew Cooper is a Talking Wolves co-founder and you can follow him on Twitter here.
Wolves Loanees – How did they get on?
Plenty of players spent the season out on loan playing in many different leagues of all levels gaining promotion, missing out on promotion, avoiding the drop, getting relegated, placing midtable and so on with their respective teams.
Those players being:
Goalkeepers: Matija Sarkic and Jamie Pardington
Defenders: Toti Gomes, Oskar Buur, Ryan Giles, Luke Matheson, Dion Sanderson and Rùben Vinagre
Midfielders: Christian Herc, Bruno Jordão, Connor Ronan and Meritan Shabani
Strikers: Lèo Bonatini, Leonardo Campana, Patrick Cutrone, Rafa Mir and Dongda He.
Here is how they got on this season:
Matija Sarkic
Age: 23
Position: GK
On loan at: Shrewsbury Town (League One)
Games played: 29
Clean sheets: 11
Goals conceded: 28
Despite some injury troubles that he suffered at the start and the end of the season (knee and quad injury respectively) Sarkic, managed to play a total of 29 games and keep a modest 11 clean sheets with Shrewsbury Town that placed 17th in League One, avoiding the drop to League Two by 7 points with a goal difference of -7. The Vocal Montenegrin shot stopper that can command his area quite well received many plaudits while at Salop, his performances alone earned various points for the club, and you have got to think that if he had a full season without any injuries, he could have helped the team achieve a higher position in the League. A very promising player to keep an eye out for, it will definitely be interesting to see how much Wolves value him and what they will decide to do with him. With all the rumours surrounding the 2 first choice keepers, is another loan on the horizon or will he take up a place in the team as the 3rd or 2nd choice Goalkeeper? We will just have to wait and see.
Toti Gomes
Age: 22
Position: Defender (CB)
On loan at: Grasshoppers (Challenge League)
Games played: 36
Goals: 2
Toti Gomes has been key in Grasshoppers promotion to the Swiss Super League, the Portuguese defender played 36 times and was the outfield player with the most minutes (3094 minutes). Gomes did not have any troubles adapting to Swiss Football at all, he has been regarded by many Grasshoppers fans as one of the best defenders and players at the club and league this season. Without him and his performances, promotion to the top of Swiss football probably would not have been achieved. The tall, quick, and strong defender has had a great season in Switzerland but he did make some mistakes at the end of the season, the best thing for him next season would be another year at Grasshoppers to see how he does in the top league, then you can work from there and see what the next step will be. A good investment overall.
Ryan Giles
Age: 21
Position: Defender (LWB/LM)
On loan at: Coventry City until January, Rotherham (Championship)
Games played: 44
Goals: 2
Assist: 1
In the end, Rotherham weren’t able to avoid relegation they just didn’t have enough in them and missed out on safety by 2 points. Nonetheless, Ryan Giles had a decent overall season in the Championship with Coventry (in the first half of the season) and Rotherham (in the second half of the season). To get 44 games under your belt at any level is great, especially in the Championship. That many games and minutes can only have done him good. Not to be forgotten is that this was his first year playing in the 2nd tier and the step up he made from the previous season. All this at 21 years of age is a good feat and a good experience for him. Aside from the number of games played, the former England U20 international got a total of 3 goal contributions, it doesn’t sound great, but he did show promise, he was good with the ball, had quick footwork and a good crosser of the ball. There is definitely potential and room for improvement in him, another loan in the Championship where he can get regular gametime is what would be best for him, or do you think he should be at Wolves next season because “Is Rayan Ait-Nouri for 20 million better than Giles?”.
Dion Sanderson
Age: 21
Position: Defender (CB/RB)
On loan at: Sunderland (League One)
Games played: 27
Goals: 1
Dion Sanderson got off to a slow start at Sunderland, he didn’t get regular game time at the Stadium of Light until Lee Johnson took charge. He only managed a few games here and there, but as the season progressed he made the CB position his own at the Black Cats. He had an extended run of 18 games in the team with him playing the full 90 minutes in 14 of those games, he would have played even more games if he hadn’t suffered a back injury that kept him out for the final and decisive games of the season. His performances were good and he got praise from many Sunderland fans, so much that he won the Young Player of the Season. Following his performances and with just one year left on his deal many teams are interested in him, a move away from Wolves seems the most likely option for all parties if a new deal isn’t agreed.
Rùben Vinagre
Age: 21
Position: Defender (LB)
On loan at: Olympiacos until January (Greek Super League), Famalicao (Liga NOS)
Games played: 27
Assist: 3
The Portuguese LB had a very poor first half of the season. He started off at Wolves making 3 appearances in old gold, but it was evident he was not good enough, so he was sent out on loan to Olympiacos. His poor form continued there as well so Wolves then sent him out on loan to Famalicao back in his homeland. He got back on track while at the Liga NOS side, playing a total of 20 games and picking up 3 assists in the meantime. Despite his form, and with the arrival of Bruno Lage his time at the club still looks to be numbered. He doesn’t have a place in the team and isn’t good enough at this time and moment but with his current form he could bring in a good sum of cash of around 10-15 million, Benfica and Sporting seem to be the two teams most interested in his signature.
Bruno Jordão
Age: 22
Position: Midfielder (CM)
On loan at: Famalicao (Liga NOS)
Games played: 11
Goals: 1
Assist: 1
Jordao’s season was hindered by a long-term injury that he suffered at the beginning of January and kept him out for the rest of the season. Before injury, the Portuguese midfielder featured 11 times and grabbed 1 goal (which was awarded the September/October goal of the month) and 1 assist. A shame for Jordao as he wasn’t able to display his qualities and has now fallen down the pecking order. Pre-season at Wolves and another year out on loan seems the best option for him and the club.
Connor Ronan
Age: 22
Position: Midfielder (CM)
On loan at: Grasshoppers (Challenge League)
Games played: 32
Goals: 1
Assist: 3
An overall good season for Ronan but also slightly unfortunate, he joined Grasshoppers and immediately picked up an injury that kept him out of their pre-season and first two games. Once he recovered, he had to fight for a place in the team, which he did really well, becoming a regular face in the team and helping the Swiss side to promotion. In his time at the club the former Ireland U21 international showed great mentality and determination, always running and fighting for every ball. He managed to reach the consistency that he was lacking in the first half of the season and although he only got 4 goal contributions, his passing and crossing was very good. The only weaknesses were duels and headers due to his stature. Unfortunately for him though, the season ended two games early as he suffered a metatarsal fracture. Hard to predict what we will do with him, one thing for sure is that he will be at Wolves recovering from injury, when he recovers who knows? Maybe another loan, because Wolves must see something in him as they have kept and persisted with him for quite a long time now.
Lèo Bonatini
Age: 26
Position: Striker (ST)
On loan at: Grasshoppers (Challenge League)
Games played: 33
Goals: 13
Assist: 2
A very bad start to life in Switzerland for Bonatini, hardly any goals in the first half of the season and didn’t seem to be enjoying it at all, or more than anything not wanting to be there. His luck changed in the second half of the season once he found his scoring boots, and he seemed to be more motivated. He contributed to 15 goals in total with 13 goals and 2 assists. He started off as a massive flop and disappointment in Zurich but ended up being instrumental by pushing Grasshoppers to promotion as the club’s top scorer and the fans seemed to finally appreciate him too. There’s no doubt where he will be next year, he will be playing in the Swiss Super League with Grasshoppers as he was signed on a two year loan deal.
Rafa Mir
Age: 23
Position: Striker (ST)
On loan at: Huesca (La Liga)
Games played: 39
Goals: 16 (two hat-tricks one in La Liga and the other in the Copa del Rey)
Assist: 1
Wolves most prolific player with 16 goals, Rafa Mir, spent the season out on loan in La Liga with Huesca. The Spanish side that sat in 20th position for the majority of the season moved up the table thanks to his goals but they weren’t enough to ensure them safety as they finished 18th, 2 points away from 17th placed Elche. The former U21 Spain international was clearly the best out of the Wolves players out on loan and he didn’t go unnoticed, many teams in Spain have shown interest in him and some Wolves fans think he should be given the chance to come back and play with us. It seems unlikely this will be the case as he is entering the last year of his contract and Wolves seem willing to cash in on him or even use him as a makeweight for a possible swap deal. Signed for 1 million, you have got to say this has been good business from the club as they will be getting double that amount in the event of his sale.
Other players out on loan:
Patrick Cutrone
Games: 24
Assist: 1
Where do you start off, it has definitely been a shocker and a season to forget for Cutrone, 24 games in total with Fiorentina, Wolves and Valencia and no goals. Left Fiorentina for the lack of game time and played 4 times at Wolves before moving back out on loan to Valencia where he encountered the same problem he had at Fiorentina. Possibly one of the worst signings under the Fosun reign, they will be lucky to get back the same amount they paid for him if they wish to sell him.
Oskar Buur
Games: 11
Sent out on an 18 month loan deal to partner club Grasshoppers and in the half a season he was there he played 11 times, his time at the club was interrupted by various injuries and when he did play he wasn’t anything special. Oskar Buur will be spending the next season on loan with Grasshoppers in the Swiss Super League along with Leo Bonatini.
Meritan Shabani
Games 7
Goals: 1
A promising start on loan with Dutch side VVV-Venlo, scoring on his debut to send the club into the Semi-Finals of the Dutch cup and some decent cameos for him. This could have been the big breakthrough for him having recovered from his ACL injury and having done well in Wolves u23s before his loan move, but unfortunately he suffered another injury that kept him out of action for the rest of the season.
Leonardo Campana
Games:10
Goals: 2
Assist: 1
The Ecuadorian internationals time in Portugal at Famalicao with fellow Wolves men Jordao and Vinagre was ultimately hindered by a muscle and a hamstring injury. He only featured in spells, getting the odd minute here and there. In his limited playing time, he did manage to grab 2 goals and 1 assist. At just 20 years of age the best option for him will be another season out on loan.
Christian Herc
Games: 32
Goals: 7
Assist: 1
The forgotten Slovakian midfielder spent the season out on loan at Czech side MFK Karvina, where he played 32 times and contributed to 8 goals. A decent season as one of the key players after an unsuccessful time at Viktoria Plzen the previous season.
Luke Matheson
Games: 2
His time out on loan with Ipswich didn’t last very long as he played 2 games and got injured shortly after. Following the injury, the loan was cancelled and Matheson returned to Wolves where he would recover and eventually feature for the U23s.
Jamie Pardington
The 20-year-old shot stopper spent time out on loan with Dulwich Hamlet and League Two side Mansfield Town, where he got his first taste of action in men’s football.
Dongda He
Games: 3
The 19 year old Chinese striker from the U23s has been sent out on loan to Chinese Super League side, Beijing Guoan, where he has made 3 appearances from the bench.
Most surprising player – Rafa Mir
Nobody would’ve expected much at all from the 23 year old Spaniard at the beginning of the season, an unsuccessful time in England, first year playing in a top division and only playing with newly promoted Huesca. In the end, he defined the odds and surprised many fans, netting 16 times in total, attracting interest from many sides.
Most disappointing player – Patrick Cutrone
No goals in 24 games, I think that says it all!
The Italian didn’t manage to get a single goal at any of the 3 clubs he played with this season, he was never a regular and fell out of favour with the managers at basically all clubs this season. The only place where the 23 year old has done well is with the Italian U21 side at the Uefa U21 Championships where he got 4 goal contributions in 4 games (3 goals 1 assist).
Most unfortunate players
Bruno Jordao
A season back in his homeland with Famalicao where he would be able to get regular gametime and thrive, what could go wrong? He got off to a decent start, getting regular gametime, scoring and assisting once, won the September/October goal of the month and then a long- term injury struck and kept him out for the season.
Meritan Shabani
A good start to life in the Netherlands for Shabani but it wasn’t to be for the German midfielder. As stated before, it could have been his breakthrough but unfortunately he received a major blow because of injury.
This time around there were 17 players out on loan and as you can see, they all had varying levels of success over the season. It’ll be interesting to see how they develop and mature this time next year.
Stats and numbers accurate as of 14/06/2021.
Matthew Gentile is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Who is Bruno Lage? All you need to know about the speculated new Wolves manager
Bruno Lage is set to become Wolves’ new manager but who is he and what will he bring to Wolves? Find out here.
Wolves 1-2 Man Utd Player Ratings
Wolves’ season came to an end with a disappointing defeat against Manchester United at Molineux. Goals from Anthony Elanga and a controversial penalty dispatched by Juan Mata either side of Nelson Semedo’s first Wolves goal was enough to give United all three points. Wolves were dull and uninspiring to say the least, but the match was of little importance as 4,500 fans enjoyed being back inside Molineux for the first time in 14 months and bid farewell to the greatest manager in the club’s modern history. It was an emotional afternoon for those inside and outside the stadium, but attention turns quickly to Nuno’s successor and the summer transfer window.
Rui Patricio
Could do little about the two United goals and pulled off an excellent save when Brandon Williams was through on goal mid-way through the first half. Was largely untroubled in the second period. Speculation continues to mount over the Portuguese number one’s future, and if he is to go, he has been an excellent servant during his three-year spell in the Black Country. 7/10
Willy Boly
It was great to see Boly back on the pitch and looking more like his old self for various reasons after suffering long term effects of COVID-19. He put in a solid performance, intercepting United’s persistent through balls and dominant in the air. 7/10
Conor Coady
Visibly upset at the final whistle as the man who changed his career departs the club. As for the game, Coady was his usual self, attempting to spread the ball and utilise the wing back whenever possible. A couple of momentary lapses in concentration led to United half chances. The new man in charge will have a massive decision to make on Conor’s future in the Wolves side. 6/10
Romain Saiss
A substandard performance from Saiss who looked a yard behind the pace of the game. He clumsily went in late on Van De Beek which led to United’s penalty. The decision was harsh considering the United midfielder took another two steps before going down, but there was absolutely no need for Saiss to go to ground. 5/10
Nelson Semedo
One of his better Wolves performances at it led to his first Wolves goal in front of the Southbank. He was a constant threat down the right-hand side and would have created many more chances if some of the other attacking players on the field were on the same wavelength. He linked well with Fabio Silva on a number of occasions, ending a poor season for Wolves’ record signing on a promising note. 8/10
Leander Dendoncker
Played in his more familiar central midfield and put in a solid display. He set Fabio Silva away with a positive stride forwards which ultimately led to the goal. He was a physical presence in the middle of the park, but it remains to be seen if he will still be a Wolves player next season. 6/10
Joao Moutinho
Followed on from his recent poor performances and was largely ineffective at both ends of the pitch. He like so many others, seems to be a player who could have played his final game at Molineux. How fitting it will be if that is the case that fans were there to show their appreciation for the midfield maestro who for two seasons was superb and a joy to watch. 5/10
Ruben Neves
Was more conservative in his play as has been the case for most of the season. Neves seems more reluctant to play through balls and break lines of defence, but that may well be down to a lack of movement and physical presence ahead of him. He won the ball back in transition in important moments in the game. 6/10
Rayan Ait-Nouri
Couldn’t live up to the heights that he produced since being re-instated into the squad in April. Elanga had the better of him to head home the opener, and Ait-Nouri’s attacking output was poor, creating no clear-cut chances. There is certainly a player in there, but it remains to be seen as to whether Wolves will take up the option to sign him on a permanent basis. 5/10
Adama Traore
Only played 27 minutes before being withdrawn through injury. He was a threat early on and Wolves clearly missed him as they created little in the second half. He has been selected for Spain’s Euro2020 squad, meaning Wolves have more players in the Spain squad than Real Madrid! 6/10
Fabio Silva
Lively and enthusiastic as has been the case all season with Silva. He finally got to play in front of Wolves fans, and he marked the occasions with an assist, playing a vital role in a great move. He couldn’t link with Willian Jose as he did with Traore and Semedo which meant his output reduced as the game went on. 7/10
Subs:
Willian Jose
Came on for Traore in the first half and had no impact on the game at all. Wolves’ early fluidity disappeared as they failed to fashion a clear-cut chance to equalise. It was his first appearance in front of fans at Molineux and it will almost certainly be his last. 4/10
Morgan Gibbs-White
Played the final half an hour and injected some energy into the midfield. He played further forward than Dendoncker but couldn’t link with the forwards as Wolves saw little of the ball in the final third. 6/10
Fernando Marcal
Returned for a long-standing injury problem and played the final eight minutes. N/A
Matthew Cooper is a Talking Wolves founder and Digital Editor – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Wolves 1-2 Man Utd Match Report
Wolves were overcome by a youthful Manchester United side as they bid farewell to their departing manager Nuno Espirito Santo.
Antony Elanga gave the visitors the lead with a bullet header from 12 yards, but the lead was cancelled out by Nelson Semedo who poked home from Fabio Silva’s pass.
United retook the lead on the brink of half-time as Juan Mata converted a controversial penalty, and it proved to be the decisive goal.
Match Report
This match was always going to be the backdrop to what was an emotional farewell to a coach who has transformed the club over his four year tenure. Nuno was greeted by hundreds of fans as he said goodbye to the city that has welcomed him with open arms, and it proved to be as emotional as we thought it would be.
However, there was a game to be played, and Nuno went with his tried and trusted five at the back with a midfield trio and two up top. Underperforming players Joao Moutinho and Leander Dendoncker started with Ruben Neves, whilst the usual back three of Conor Coady, Romain Saiss and Willy Boly kept their places. Rayan Ait-Nouri played what could be his last game for Wolves should they decide not to take up their permanent option to buy.
Fabio Silva and Adama Traore were tasked with providing the creative output, and the latter did what he needed. Traore opened up the game only four minutes in when he burst past several United defenders before putting his shot wide of the post. Young Brandon Williams, who has previously performed well against the Spaniard, couldn’t get close to him and this allowed Wolves to create space in behind and look dangerous.
The danger wasn’t able yield results however, as Wolves fell behind early on yet again this season on 13 minutes. A cross from the right-hand side beat the back three, and 19-year-old Elanga peeled off Ait-Nouri to power home a header for his first ever Premier League goal. The goal was indicative of the issues Wolves have had aerially this season and it was again frustrating to see a lack of learning from their mistakes as the centre-backs were sluggish to close out any chance of an effort on goal.
Soon after going behind, things went from bad to worse as Traore had to be taken off with what looked like a hamstring issue – not the first injury woe Wolves have had this season. Willian Jose came on to replace him and it looked drab for a team that has struggled in front of goal this season.
Fortunately for the side, there was still some good football left in the tank as they were able to combine the midfield and forward lines effectively to draw level. Dendoncker made rare use of his physical stature to burst through midfield after a lovely Moutinho flick, he then played the ball on for Fabio Silva who placed an excellent ball across the box and Nelson Semedo was there to side foot home his first of the season 39 minutes in.
The game ended up being an even contest after the equaliser, but Rui Patricio still had to stay alive as he made a sharp save at his near post to deny United a second. The goal wasn’t to be denied though as Mike Dean controversially awarded a penalty to the away side in added time of the first half after Saiss was adjudged to have tripped Donny Van De Beek. Juan Mata confidently dispatched the spot kick and it was back to the drawing board for Wolves at the break.
The second half proved to be a real stalemate yet again as Wolves found it difficult to break down United’s defence, either through the wide/inside channels and centrally. Willian Jose was proving to be as ineffective as ever and Silva couldn’t find much service to play off. The Red Devils could and should have added a third when Dan James was sent clean through on goal, but his poor attempt at a chipped finish bounced well wide of the net.
United’s young side were able to hold on to all three points despite some late pressure from Wolves which saw the midfield push up and Morgan Gibbs-White added centrally to add some creative flair.
It wasn’t the way Nuno would have wanted to bow out, but it’s a result which summarises the season and shows why Fosun have been looking for a new direction heading into next season.
The scenes at full-time were incredible, as Nuno was given a true lap of honour with fans belting out the famous ‘Nuno had a dream’ and lauding him with the loudest cheers and applause heard at Molineux in over a year. It showed how he is a manager that has connected an entire city and has been a stellar person and gentleman throughout his whole tenure. The eloquence of his quotes, the memories of Europe and off the field connections were all symbolised in what was a magical moment for him and his coaching staff.
He was given a guard of honour by his players and looked on with teary eyes as he left the pitch for the final time. A fitting farewell for the best Wolves manager of a generation.
The club now look on to an enormous summer which will show what Fosun have outlined for next season. The next managerial appointment is expected to be swift, but no matter who they are, they will be backed by a full house at Molineux next season, with fans ready to see a rejuvenated squad that can push up the league and build on from the foundations built by Nuno.
Tom Parker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Wolves v Manchester United Preview
Wolves will look to end a disappointing season on a high note as they face Manchester United at Molineux on Sunday.
Richarlison’s header at Goodison Park on Wednesday succumbed Wanderers to their second straight away defeat as they lost 1-0 to Everton, but Nuno’s side did win their last home outing against Brighton a fortnight ago.
Since securing a Champions League place and a first second place finish in three years, United are winless in three and are expected to heavily rotate their side ahead of Wednesday’s Europa League final against Villarreal in Gdansk.
Kick off at Molineux is at 4pm and the game will be broadcast on BT Sport.
Wolves form
In any other part of the season Wolves’ last two defeats and the lack of attacking edge surrounding them may have sparked concern, but with Nuno’s side having had nothing to play for for the best part of five months now, everyone around Molineux is simply desperate for the season to end. Thankfully, they’ll get their wish at 6pm on Sunday.
Wanderers produced just six shots on target in their last two defeats to Tottenham and Everton, which will probably surprise most who endured both games. At the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium especially Wolves were completely devoid of any attacking threat and the scoreline flattered them, while at Goodison an uncharacteristically impressive first half showing fizzled out as the second 45 wore on.
Although Wolves’ squad simply isn’t good enough to compete in the Premier League and their manager has always been safety-first since promotion to the top-flight, it’s been disappointing that their nothing-to-play-for status hasn’t produced some entertaining football. Adama Traore has played well for most of Wolves’ recent games, but he is currently being expected to produce goals almost single-handedly, which hasn’t been possible since Lewis Dunk’s dismissal two weeks ago.
With just 90 more miserable minutes to contend with, it would be nice if Nuno’s side could send their 4,500 returning fans home feeling even slightly entertained.
Manchester United form
Although facing the second place team on the final day of the campaign would normally be a daunting prospect, there’s no doubt United have their sights set on other goals.
Since beating Aston Villa and securing their Champions League status for next campaign two weeks ago United have lost to Leicester (albeit with a heavily rotated side) and Liverpool and drawn with relegated Fulham, signalling their intention to focus on Wednesday’s final in Poland.
With absolutely nothing to play for in the league and a huge final around the corner it’s not expected that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will field any of his big hitters at Molineux, it’s hard to pick a player that Wolves should look out for. Should they be involved in any capacity, Bruno Fernandes and Edinson Cavani will cause Wolves all manner of problems, with the latter especially hitting great form in the final couple of months of the season.
Wolves v Manchester United team news
While rumours persisted over the last couple of weeks that Raul Jimenez may be involved on the bench against United, the Mexican will not return until the start of next season following tests on his skull this week.
As well as Jimenez, Pedro Neto, Daniel Podence and Jonny will not be involved on Sunday, while John Ruddy is expected to start in what may well prove to be his final game for Wolves.
As mentioned previously United are expected to heavily rotate their side, with Scott McTominay and Fred unlikely to be involved after picking up knocks against Fulham on Tuesday.
Captain Harry Maguire and Anthony Martial will miss out and face unlikely races against time to be fit for Gdansk, while Daniel James is a minor doubt after returning from injury.
Wolves line up prediction: Ruddy; Hoever, Coady, Boly, Ait-Nouri; Neves, Moutinho; Traore, Vitinha, Gibbs-White; Silva.
Wolves v Manchester United head to head
United will head to Molineux for a league game for the first time in almost two years, with Ruben Neves’ brilliant long-range strike earning Wolves a 1-1 draw in August 2019.
Remarkably, Solskjaer’s side haven’t won at Molineux in four visits in any competition since Wolves returned to the Premier League in 2018, including two 2-1 defeats in 2018-19 and 1-1 and 0-0 draws in league and cup in 2019-20.
United’s last win at Molineux came in a 5-0 success under Sir Alex Ferguson in March 2012.
Wolves v Manchester United prediction
With neither side seemingly interested in playing this game, this one really could go either way.
United are probably favourites, even if they are expected to make eight to 11 changes, although their already depleted back line being rotated even further could cause trouble.
Or at least it would against any other side. Wolves have scored one goal against a side with 11 men on the field in their last five games, are on course for their second-lowest ever Premier League goal tally and have had almost no forward threat since Raul Jimenez went off at the Emirates.
It could end up being the stoppable force against the moveable object, but it’s hard to back anything but a United win to cap off one of the dullest seasons in recent Wolves history.
Prediction: Wolves 0-2 Manchester United
James Wynn is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Everton 1-0 Wolves Player Ratings
Wolves endured defeat in their penultimate game of the season as they lost 1-0 to Everton at Goodison Park. Richarlison’s header early in the second half earned three points for the hosts despite Wolves’ first-half dominance, and Nuno’s side now have to suffer just one more game of a miserable season against Manchester United on Sunday.
John Ruddy
Brought in for seemingly his last or penultimate Wolves game, with his contract expiring next month. Had very little to do other than pick the ball out of the net, but did make a good save from Calvert-Lewin in the second half. An error-free evening to close out Ruddy’s Wolves career. 6/10.
Willy Boly
Started his first game since the Burnley debacle following a spate of long COVID and coped well. Boly dealt well with the threat of Calvert-Lewin and his tackling and distribution was good on the whole. Was withdrawn for Dendoncker on 79 minutes, presumably due to fitness reasons. 6/10.
Conor Coady
Had a much quieter evening than his 13-clearance game at Tottenham on Sunday. Recovered well from an early slip that nearly let the Toffees in, but was otherwise pretty much untroubled. Played a couple of trademark long diagonal balls that have been at a premium this campaign. 6/10.
Max Kilman
Slotted back into the starting lineup after being an unused sub in North London on Sunday. Wasn’t particularly troubled like his defensive colleagues and popped up with a few touches in offensive situations as Wolves’ set-piece count rocketed up in the first half. 6/10.
Nelson Semedo
Received plenty of the ball in the first half and linked up well with Traore down Everton’s right, which hasn’t always been the case this campaign. His attacking output lessened in the second half, just as Wolves’ did, but his defensive play was impressive. 6/10.
Ruben Neves
Was reintroduced to the starting XI after being rotated against Spurs. Did a lot of the hard yards in mopping up after Moutinho’s struggles and kept the play ticking over well. Ultimately lacked the killer ball to create opportunities when Wolves needed it most. 6/10.
Joao Moutinho
It’s not been Moutinho’s finest season by any stretch, but this performance was probably his worst. The 34-year-old looked completely bereft of any composure in midfield, his passes were almost entirely underhit or overhit and his crossing was entirely unsuccessful. It would be quite the surprise if Moutinho starts in a gold shirt next season – his age is certainly showing. 2/10.
Rayan Ait-Nouri
Like most of his teammates, Ait-Nouri had a decent, if unspectacular, game. Was a constant presence on the wing, especially in the first half, like Semedo, but lacked a good enough final ball from open play or set pieces. Has certainly enhanced his chances of a permanent move to Molineux in recent weeks. 6/10.
Adama Traore
As so often in recent weeks, Traore was Wolves’ best player. Had he not been on the pitch Wolves would have certainly had almost zero attacking threat, with Traore beating players for fun in the first half especially. Should have done better with a first-half effort as the ball fell to him from an Ait-Nouri corner, but his shot was tipped over by Pickford. 7/10.
Fabio Silva
Was largely ineffective and anonymous, which may be more the fault of Wolves’ gameplan rather than Silva himself. Had one good opportunity in the first half, but his attempt on the turn was deflected over the bar by Mina. Should get one more start against Manchester United before Raul Jimenez hopefully retakes the starting berth in August, should he get the all-clear. Silva will probably be happy to revert to his bit-part role next season. 5/10.
Morgan Gibbs-White
Was one of Wolves’ brightest players in the first 45 minutes, with most attacks going through either him or Traore. Saw a technically brilliant volley saved well by Pickford in the early stages. His impact on the game lessened as he moved from a central position to the left side in the second half but was still hugely unfortunate to be withdrawn for Jose just after the hour mark. 7/10.
Willian Jose
Replaced Gibbs-White on 68 minutes. As with most of his Wolves career, his movement and first touch were poor. Reports this week that Wanderers will not be signing him on a permanent deal will be welcomed by most of the Molineux faithful. 4/10.
Leander Dendoncker
Did nothing of note. N/A.
Vitinha
As above. N/A.
James Wynn is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Everton vs Wolves – Match Preview
Wolves travel to Goodison Park on Wednesday evening in what will be their first game in a stadium with supporters since their last trip to Merseyside. A 4-0 defeat to Liverpool in December. 6,500 Everton fans will support their side who are in desperate need of a victory if they are to secure a European place this season.
Wolves Form
Wolves have had an indifferent run of form in the past few weeks with two wins, two defeats and a draw in the last five games. Sunday’s performance away at Tottenham was underwhelming, with Wolves beaten in every department on the pitch and a score line which in truth flattered Nuno’s side. There have been plenty of positives from games against West Brom and Brighton with Wolves’ youngsters performing well, but the defeat at Tottenham will be an important learning curve for them ahead of the trip to Everton.
Opposition form
Interestingly, Everton’s form mirrors that of Wolves with two wins, two defeats and a draw in their last five games. It had looked as though Carlo Ancelotti’s side were destined for a European place this season, but their recent inconsistencies have now cast doubt over that, with a top seven place no longer in their hands. Sundays defeat at home to Sheffield United was their most damaging defeat of the season, leaving them three points behind West Ham and low on confidence and already relegated Sheffield United deserved their win. Everton have struggled at home this season, with a better record away from home than on Merseyside.
Team News
Nuno stuck with a back four for the game against Tottenham and is likely to continue to do so for the final two games of the season. There were, however, some surprising changes to the line-up that had beaten Brighton. Max Kilman will once again be wondering what he has to do to earn a regular starting place in the side as he was replaced by Romain Saiss. Ruben Neves also dropped to the bench, but Spurs’ midfield domination is likely to mean he will come back into the side for the trip to Everton, most likely in place of Moutinho. KI-Jana Hoever struggled against Reguilon and Bale and is likely to drop out, with Rayan Ait-Nouri coming back into the side. This will allow Nelson Semedo to move back to his more familiar right-hand side. Nuno confirmed after the defeat to Spurs that Daniel Podence will now receive surgery for an ongoing groin problem and will therefore miss the rest of the season. Wily Boly and Marcal have continued to train and are likely to once again be part of the matchday squad, but it would be a surprise to see either start at Goodison Park. Raul Jimenez is reportedly fit and raring to go, but he is awaiting confirmation form his specialist as to when he will be available for selection again.
Likely Line Up: Patricio, Semedo, Coady, Saiss, Ait-Nouri, Neves, Dendoncker, Traore, Gibbs-White, Vitinha, Silva (Subs: Ruddy, Kilman, Hoever, Boly, Marcal, Moutinho, Cundle, Jose)
Everton have a near fully fit squad for Wednesday, with just one known absence of Yerry Mina who is suffering from an adductor injury. James Rodriguez has returned from injury and started the game against Sheffield United, but did not look fit and was withdrawn in the second half. Everton are likely to match Wolves formation wise, adopting a 4-2-3-1 formation, led by Dominic Calvert-Lewin whose early season goal rush seems to have dried up somewhat.
Head-to-head
Historically, Everton have had the better of Wolves, coming out on top 62 times in the 135 competitive games between two of English football’s oldest sides. Wolves have won 46 times against the Toffees. It has been very much honours even since promotion between the two sides, with both Everton and Wolves winning twice in addition to the draw in Wolves’ first game back in the topflight back in August 2018. Everton won the reverse fixture 2-1 at Molineux in early January, sparking an alarming downturn in form for Wolves who slid down the table before an upturn in results in February.
Prediciton
As has been the case for most of the season, you just do not know what you will get from Wolves. If Vitinha, Gibbs-White and Silva can replicate their promising performances against West Brom and Brighton, Wolves will certainly cause Everton problems. Adama Traore caused Everton problems at Molineux last year up against Digne and Holgate, something he will look to replicate. However, Wolves are always vulnerable with a back four and Everton’s plethora of attacking talent have unperformed recently. With the addition of 6,500 supporters behind them, it is hard to make a case for a Wolves clean sheet. Despite this, Everton’s form and home record is poor, and they are under immense pressure to finish in the top seven. If Wolves’ youngsters express themselves as we know they can, and lessons can be learnt from Sunday’s defeat, Nuno’s men can get a result at Goodison Park.
Prediction: Everton 1-1 Wolves
Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.
Spurs 2-0 Wolves Player Ratings
Wolves fell to a disappointing defeat at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with goals either side of half time from Harry Kane and Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg giving the home side all three points. Wolve defended resolutely in the first half, spearheaded by captain Conor Coady, but conceded two poor and avoidable goals which put the game beyond them. Adama Traore was threatening on the break but often cut an isolate figure as Wolves failed to assert a spell of sustained pressure on the Spurs goal.
Rui Patricio
Following a week of speculation surrounding his future, Patricio turned in a performance of quality against Tottenham, keeping the score at a respectable two. He turned Harry Kane efforts onto the post on two occasions and commanded his area well as Wolves improved in their defending of set pieces. 7/10
Ki-Jana Hoever
Kept his place in the side following a solid display against Brighton last week. Hoever struggled up against Reguilon and Bale and lacks a general defensive presence when the ball is put into the box. He had little impact going forwards on the break on a disappointing afternoon but an important learning curve for the nineteen-year-old. 5/10
Conor Coady
A rare occasion where a defender on the losing side was given man of the match, which speaks volumes about the overall Wolves performance. Coady was excellent defensively, particularly in the first half where he cleared just about everything that came his way. He was also dominant in the air against Harry Kane from set pieces. He will however be disappointed to have let Kane through for the opening goal, but the poor defensive line which ultimately played him onside certainly didn’t help. 8/10
Romain Saiss
Reinstated back into the side and put in a solid if not spectacular display. He made few mistakes and was an aerial presence in the box. The Moroccon captain’s distribution left a lot to be desired at times, and he certainly looks more at home in a back three. 6/10
Nelson Semedo
Playing out of position on the left-hand side essentially nullified his main strength of bringing the ball forwards down the flank. He struggled defensively and was once again caught out of line playing Kane onside which led to the opening goal of the game. 5/10
Leander Dendoncker
Won the ball back in the centre of the park to break down Tottenham attacks but was relatively ineffective going forwards, with his passing failing to stick to the three playing ahead of him. 6/10
Joao Moutinho
Passive and ineffective as the Spurs midfield bypassed him on almost every occasion. He tried to get the ball to Traore whenever possible, but Wolves’ attack building was far too predictable, causing little problems. 5/10
Adama Traore
Wolves’ main attacking outlet, looking to get on the front foot at every opportunity and was at the heart of every half chance Nuno’s side had. He came closest to goal in the second half cutting inside on his left foot but firing just past the near post. He was often isolated with little support in the box and cut a frustrated figure at full time. 7/10
Vitinha
A disappointing game for Vitinha who failed to live up to the hype of his previous two performances. He was outmuscled on numerous occasions and had very little impact with the ball at his feet. 5/10
Morgan Gibbs-White
Gibbs-White was not afraid to get involved and showed for the ball at every opportunity, but it was not midfielders’ day. He like Vitinha, struggled physically and had next to no impact in the penalty area. 6/10
Fabio Silva
Often isolated on his own up front seeing very little of the ball. He had a couple of half chances created by Traore on breakaways, one of which won a corner but in truth he never really threatened Hugo Lloris in the Tottenham goal. 6/10
Subs:
Willian Jose
Came on in the second half and brought his usual strength of hold up play which meant Wolves could keep the ball higher up the field. However, he posed no goal threat at all which added to the frustration as Traore got into a number of good crossing positions in the second period. 5/10
Ruben Neves
Added some much-needed energy into the midfield but it was too little too late for Wolves. It was a surprise to see Neves dropped from the starting eleven and the performances of Dendoncker and Moutinho certainly didn’t justify it. 6/10
Theo Corbeanu
Introduced for his long-awaited senior debut and played predominantly on the left-hand side. He provided a new-found energy but saw little of the ball in his ten minutes on the field. 6/10
Ciaran Barker is part of the Talking Wolves editorial team – you can follow him on Twitter here.