Wolves host Arsenal at Molineux in what promises to be a critical Premier League clash for the West Midlands club. Having lost 2-0 to Arsenal on the opening day of the season, Wolves will hope to showcase significant improvement under manager Vitor Pereira, who took over after the departure of Julen Lopetegui earlier in the campaign. Following their disappointing 3-1 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Wolves are in desperate need of a result to avoid slipping further into trouble, and Pereira will be eager to secure a statement victory against a title-contending Arsenal side.
Wolves Team News
Pereira faces a number of tough decisions ahead of the match, particularly due to off-field issues and injury concerns.
Mario Lemina: The midfielder has made it clear that he wants to leave the club during the ongoing transfer window, and Pereira has excluded him from the squad until his future is resolved. His absence will undoubtedly impact Wolves’ midfield depth.
Matheus Cunha: The Brazilian forward has been at the center of transfer speculation, with reports linking him to Arsenal and other clubs. While Pereira was reportedly unhappy with his behavior during and after the Chelsea match, Cunha is expected to retain his spot in the starting lineup. How he performs under the spotlight, especially against a club rumored to be interested in his services, will be closely watched.
Injury Updates: Wolves have received a boost with Toti Gomes and Boubacar Traore both nearing returns. However, it is unlikely that either will be ready to feature in this match, meaning Pereira will rely on his existing options to build the squad.
Jose Sa: The goalkeeper has been under fire for a series of poor performances this season, including against Chelsea. However, Pereira remains a staunch admirer of Sa and is expected to continue backing him in goal for this crucial match.
Potential Tactical Changes
One of the main areas Pereira will look to address is the defense, which struggled to cope with Chelsea’s pace and movement. A reshuffle is likely, especially with the recent emergence of Rodrigo Gomes, who made a strong impression during his cameo against Chelsea. He could take Matt Doherty’s place as the right wing-back, offering additional attacking impetus down the flank.
To accommodate Rodrigo Gomes, Nelson Semedo may shift into a central defensive role as part of a back three, alongside Christopher Agbadou and Hugo Bueno. This setup would provide Wolves with additional pace in defense, which will be crucial against Arsenal’s rapid transitions.
In midfield, the pairing of Joao Gomes and Andre has been one of Wolves’ few bright spots this season, and they are expected to anchor the central pivot once again. Both players bring tenacity and composure, qualities that will be vital against Arsenal’s dynamic midfield trio.
Further forward, changes could be on the horizon. Pablo Sarabia struggled to make an impact against Chelsea and is likely to lose his place to Goncalo Guedes. Guedes’ creativity and ability to exploit spaces between the lines could prove pivotal in unlocking Arsenal’s defense. He is expected to partner Cunha, who will need to put aside the transfer speculation and focus on delivering a strong performance.
Up front, Jorgen Strand Larsen is set to continue as Wolves’ lone striker despite a recent run of missed opportunities. The Norwegian forward offers a physical presence and aerial ability that will be important in holding up the ball and bringing others into play. Pereira will be hoping that Larsen can rediscover his scoring touch in what is likely to be a low-margin game.
Predicted Wolves Starting XI
Formation: 3-4-2-1
Goalkeeper: Jose Sa – Despite his inconsistent form, Pereira is expected to back his experience between the sticks.
Defense:
Right Center-Back: Nelson Semedo – His versatility allows him to slot into a central role while still supporting the attack when needed.
Center-Back: Christopher Agbadou – A steady presence at the heart of the defense.
Left Center-Back: Hugo Bueno – Likely to retain his place due to a lack of alternatives.
Wing-Backs:
Right Wing-Back: Rodrigo Gomes – His energetic performance against Chelsea could earn him a starting spot.
Left Wing-Back: Rayan Ait-Nouri – Offers attacking quality down the left flank and can help stretch Arsenal’s defense.
Midfield Pivot:
Joao Gomes – A key figure in breaking up play and maintaining possession in midfield.
Andre – Complements Gomes with his ability to carry the ball forward and distribute effectively.
Attacking Midfielders:
Goncalo Guedes – Expected to come in for Pablo Sarabia to add creativity and a cutting edge in the final third.
Matheus Cunha – Despite recent issues, he remains one of Wolves’ most talented attackers and will be eager to impress.
Striker:
Jorgen Strand Larsen – Trusted to lead the line with his physical presence and ability to link play.
Analysis and Outlook
Wolves will need a near-perfect performance to upset Arsenal, who have been in excellent form this season. Pereira’s side will aim to frustrate the Gunners with a disciplined defensive setup and look to exploit counter-attacking opportunities through the pace and creativity of Guedes and Cunha.
While Wolves have shown flashes of quality this season, consistency has been a major issue. The absence of key players like Lemina and the uncertainty surrounding Cunha’s future only add to the challenges Pereira faces. However, a passionate home crowd at Molineux could provide the extra motivation needed to produce an upset.
A result against Arsenal would not only boost Wolves’ position in the table but also restore confidence in a squad that has struggled for momentum. For Pereira, this match represents an opportunity to prove his tactical acumen and set the tone for the second half of the season.