Wolverhampton Wanderers’ head coach Gary O’Neil has made an impressive start to his tenure at Molineux, winning over supporters with a sharp upturn in form. Despite a challenging beginning to the season, Wolves secured a stunning late comeback victory against Tottenham Hotspur, becoming only the second team to defeat the high-flying Spurs.
O’Neil’s appointment came under acrimonious circumstances, with Wolves dealing with issues surrounding the Premier League’s rules on profit and sustainability. The club faced a fire sale of key assets, resulting in the departure of players like Ruben Neves, Nathan Collins, Raul Jimenez, and Conor Coady. Notable figures such as Joao Moutinho and Adama Traore were also let go at the end of their contracts.
The lack of funds for new signings raised concerns, with minimal additions like Tom King and Matt Doherty. O’Neil took over as head coach just a week before the team’s first Premier League fixture against Manchester United. Despite a slow start, O’Neil gradually implemented his philosophy, and late signings like Enso Gonzalez, Santiago Bueno, Tommy Doyle, and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde were brought in.
After a disappointing draw at Luton Town and a Carabao Cup exit at Ipswich Town, Wolves bounced back with a remarkable 2-1 home victory against Manchester City. Since then, the team has lost just one league game, earning valuable points against Aston Villa and Newcastle United and securing victories over Bournemouth and Tottenham.
Currently sitting in 12th place in the Premier League, Wolves are nine points above the relegation zone and just one point away from a spot in the top half. Despite statistically facing the most challenging opening to the season in the division, O’Neil has guided the team to a positive position. There are indications that O’Neil may bring in new players in January, with a more extensive summer shopping spree expected in 2024.
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