AliousSince taking over as Wolves manager in December, Vítor Pereira has completely revitalized the club, putting them in a strong position to avoid relegation.
During the first half of the 2024/25 season, Wolves struggled under Gary O’Neil, managing just two wins from 16 matches, which left them firmly stuck in the relegation zone. However, in six fewer games under Pereira, the Old Gold have already secured four victories, climbing six points clear of the drop zone and significantly boosting their survival hopes.
Former England international Joe Cole believes Wolves are now safe, as Leicester City and Ipswich Town continue to falter. Given their recent resurgence, it would take a disastrous collapse for Wolves to slip back into the bottom three. Much of the credit must go to Pereira, who has stabilized the club and introduced tactical adjustments that are yielding significant improvements—especially in the case of one key player.
### **Pereira unlocks André’s potential as a defensive midfielder**
Wolves’ recent draw against Everton showcased just how influential André has become in Pereira’s system. The Brazilian midfielder delivered a dominant display at the base of midfield, earning the Man of the Match award for his exceptional work rate and defensive contributions. Wolves fans even compared his relentless energy and ball-winning ability to N’Golo Kanté, one of the Premier League’s greatest defensive midfielders.
Pereira has recognized that the 23-year-old thrives in a deeper role as a lone number six, where he has more space to dictate play. Speaking to *Express & Star*, Pereira explained:
**“The physical demands of the Premier League require adaptation, and I believe André will continue to improve year after year. He knows how to play with the ball, but I’ve realized he is at his best when operating alone as a number six. He moves well into free spaces, whereas having a midfield partner beside him can limit his effectiveness.”**
Previously, André had been deployed in a double pivot, but Pereira’s tactical shift suggests he could now be used as a dedicated defensive midfielder, giving Wolves greater balance and structure.
### **João Gomes can flourish in a more advanced role**
Former Wolves midfielder Dave Edwards hailed André as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League following his performance against Everton, and it’s difficult to disagree.
Meanwhile, Wolves possess another ball-winning powerhouse in João Gomes, who ranks sixth in the Premier League for tackles won this season, with 78. While Gomes is a key figure in regaining possession and maintaining control in midfield, he also has the potential to make a greater impact in attack.
The 24-year-old has only scored four goals in all competitions this season, but his ability to break forward suggests he could become a bigger offensive threat. Last season, O’Neil emphasized that Gomes needed to improve his final ball, and with André now anchoring the midfield, the former Flamengo star could be given more freedom to support the attack.
Pereira’s adjustments are not only tightening Wolves’ defensive structure but also unlocking the full potential of his midfielders, making them a far more competitive and well-balanced side as they push towards Premier League survival.
Alious
