Alious
Wolves boss Vítor Pereira is determined not to let his players become complacent, despite their relatively safe position in the Premier League standings. With a 12-point cushion above the relegation zone, the team has some breathing room—but Pereira insists the job is far from done, and he’s pushing his squad to stay sharp for the upcoming test against Tottenham Hotspur.
**No Room for Relaxation**
Pereira has made it clear that there will be no easing off the gas. “Complacency is a major mistake,” he said. “It’s my duty to make sure the players remain focused. We’re up against a top side in Tottenham, and even if they rotate because of European commitments, they have quality in depth. I’ve seen them play recently—they’re hungry and aggressive. We have to match that energy and remain mentally sharp.”
He praised Tottenham’s head coach, someone he’s familiar with from his time managing in Japan, but emphasized that Spurs’ recent struggles only make them more dangerous. “They’re still full of fire, and we must respond with ambition and belief.”
**Strong Bond with Supporters**
Pereira also highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong connection with Wolves’ supporters. “When we win, the relationship with fans is easy. But true connection comes when we show them heart and courage,” he said. “When the players give their all, that energy reaches the stands and comes right back. It’s about playing with passion—not sitting back, not being passive, but pressing, fighting, showing courage.”
**Confidence Through Unity and Set-Piece Work**
Pereira believes the team’s steady improvement is a result of trust built over time. “When we arrived, it was about proving our tactical plan through results. We had to correct, refine, and unify the squad—on the pitch, through video, and with consistent messaging,” he said. “The biggest sign of progress is when players cover for each other’s mistakes. That’s the essence of a real team.”
Set pieces, once a vulnerability, have also become a key focus. “It’s not magic—just small adjustments. Tactically, we’re better. Mentally, we’re sharper.”
**Cunha Returns, but Starting XI Stays Intact**
Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha is back from suspension and ready to rejoin the squad, though he’s expected to start on the bench. Pereira praised Cunha’s attitude during his absence: “He’s been working hard, staying connected to our ideas. But we’ve won our last three games with a consistent, balanced team. That kind of form earns the right to continue.”
He emphasized the importance of unity and leadership. “Matheus understands the situation. He’s committed to helping the team, and he will play his part.”
**Tactical Flexibility and Evolving Roles**
Pereira is gradually expanding Wolves’ tactical range, using Cunha’s suspension to experiment with attacking movements and positional rotations. “A system shouldn’t restrict players’ strengths—it should adapt. We’ve added layers to our play with the ball, trying new patterns and ideas,” he explained.
He described a more nuanced approach, such as shifting players like Rayan Aït-Nouri into central areas at times, while ensuring the team adjusts around those movements. “The system evolves when everyone understands their role. The goal is to challenge opponents with variety.”
**Lifelong Learner, Constant Teacher**
Drawing from his background in youth coaching, Pereira sees every season as a chance to grow—both for the team and for himself. “I’ve always believed that even a 35-year-old player can still learn. That’s the mindset I bring. Every season adds a piece to the bigger picture—we’re building a masterpiece, one step at a time.”
As Wolves gear up for a difficult encounter with Spurs, Pereira is reinforcing the importance of humility, hunger, and hard work. The message is clear: safety may be within reach, but the real challenge is sustaining the ambition to climb higher.
Alious
