Vitor Pereira has made an exceptional start to his managerial career at Wolverhampton Wanderers, marking an impressive debut in the Premier League. Since taking over from Gary O’Neil, who was dismissed following a disappointing defeat to Ipswich Town, Pereira has overseen an unbeaten run of three matches, with two wins and a draw. This strong start has brought an immediate sense of positivity and belief back to Molineux, with Wolves looking more organized and confident on the pitch. The squad has notably responded well to the changes under Pereira, with players expressing how the atmosphere has shifted since O’Neil’s departure.

The impact of Pereira’s arrival is clear in the results, as the team has collected seven points from a possible nine in their last three outings, which marks a significant improvement from previous performances. Pereira’s philosophy and fresh perspective have helped rebuild the confidence of a squad that was in need of revitalization. The players, including midfielder Tommy Doyle, have openly acknowledged that the decision to part ways with O’Neil was crucial for bringing in a new level of belief and energy into the team. Doyle mentioned that the departure of the former manager was necessary for the squad to reset and embrace a new sense of optimism under the new coach.

However, Pereira is not just focused on the overall team morale; he is also demanding more from individual players, pushing them to elevate their performances. One player who has come under Pereira’s scrutiny is the Portuguese full-back Nelson Semedo. Pereira has expressed that while he appreciates Semedo’s commitment and work rate, he believes that there needs to be a more refined approach to his style of play. Pereira remarked that he sometimes has to tell Semedo to slow down, as the defender tends to run excessively without always considering the tactical implications. “Sometimes I need to tell Nelson to stop because he runs too much,” Pereira said in an interview with Express and Star. “We can run a lot, but I prefer they run with intelligence. He’s the kind of personality we need in this team.”

While Pereira’s comments may seem critical, they also underline the manager’s belief in Semedo’s potential and value to the team. The Portuguese defender’s energy and drive are qualities Pereira admires, but the manager is keen to harness those attributes in a more controlled and strategic manner. This approach is part of Pereira’s broader tactical vision to instill discipline and smart decision-making in his players, ensuring that they are not only working hard but working efficiently.

Another significant element of the current situation surrounding Semedo is his uncertain future at the club. The full-back is one of several Wolves players whose contracts are set to expire in 2025, creating a level of uncertainty about his long-term prospects at Molineux. Despite this, it is clear that Wolves are eager to keep Semedo at the club, with the defender reportedly happy at Wolves. However, the lack of progress on contract negotiations so far under Pereira has raised concerns, as other clubs could approach Semedo during the January transfer window.

Wolves have a number of key players who are entering the final year of their contracts, and this impending contract crisis puts added pressure on Pereira and the club’s hierarchy to make decisions on who will be retained and who might leave. In Semedo’s case, while there are positive signs that he could remain at Molineux, it remains essential for both the club and the player’s representatives to begin discussions on a potential extension. With Semedo’s future unresolved, the January window could bring uncertainty, and other clubs may look to capitalize on the situation.

The club’s management must move swiftly to secure key players like Semedo and ensure that contract talks progress, as allowing uncertainty to linger could destabilize the squad at a time when they are enjoying a good run under their new manager. While Pereira seems optimistic about the potential for Semedo to stay, he will have to navigate the complexities of the contract situation while keeping the team focused on improving their Premier League standing. With other players also facing contract decisions, it is a crucial period for both the coach and the club’s management to make the right choices and provide the necessary assurances to their players.