Craig Dawson’s situation at Wolves is a harsh reminder of how quickly things can change in football. Just last season, he was one of the first names on the team sheet, playing a crucial role under Gary O’Neil as Wolves navigated a tricky Premier League campaign. His leadership, defensive awareness, and experience made him a vital part of the squad, and many fans saw him as an underrated asset.
When he arrived from West Ham in January 2023, there were mixed opinions about whether he was the right signing for Wolves. Some questioned if he was past his best, but he quickly silenced the doubters with his performances. His ability to read the game, command the backline, and contribute in both boxes made him a fan favorite, despite his past connections with local rivals West Bromwich Albion.
However, the arrival of Vítor Pereira has completely changed the landscape for Dawson. Under the new manager, he has barely featured, and his exclusion from the updated Premier League squad for the second half of the season all but confirms that his time at Molineux is coming to an end. While some Wolves fans disagree with Pereira’s decision—arguing that Dawson still has plenty to offer—it seems the Portuguese coach has already made up his mind.
What makes this situation even more surprising is that Gary O’Neil, at the start of the season, seemed convinced that Dawson would continue to be an important player. His comments suggested he saw Dawson as a leader and someone who would be “massive” for the team. However, the reality turned out to be very different. Just six months later, Wolves are reportedly in talks to terminate Dawson’s contract, cutting his time at the club short.
For Dawson, this must be a frustrating way to exit. At 34, he is in the twilight years of his career, but he still possesses plenty of experience and defensive quality that could benefit another club. The question now is where he goes next. Some Premier League teams struggling defensively might take a chance on him, but a move to the Championship could be more realistic, especially if he’s looking for regular playing time. There’s also the possibility of moving abroad—perhaps to MLS or the Middle East—where experienced defenders are often valued.
Ultimately, it’s a disappointing ending to what had been a strong spell at Wolves. Dawson went from being a key player in one season to being pushed out the door the next. Football can be ruthless, and his story at Molineux is just another example of how quickly things can change at the highest level.