Wolverhampton Wanderers find themselves in a challenging position midway through the 2024/25 season, sitting precariously in 17th place in the Premier League table, just a single point above the relegation zone. It has been a difficult campaign so far, but there is newfound optimism surrounding the club following the arrival of Vítor Pereira as head coach. Pereira’s impact has been immediate, with Wolves securing three wins in his first five matches in charge, sparking hope among fans that he can guide the team to safety and a more respectable finish in the table.

Pereira has already begun shaping the squad in his image, making his first signing in central defender Emmanuel Agbadou. The Ivorian, known for his physicality and composure, should bolster Wolves’ backline, which has looked vulnerable at times this season. Fans will be hoping that Agbadou is the first of several new arrivals before the January transfer window closes, as squad depth remains a pressing concern for the club. Wolves have learned the hard way how injuries to key players can derail a season. Last year, the absence of senior players forced the club to rely heavily on young, inexperienced players, leading to a loss of momentum during a crucial period.

This time around, Pereira and the Wolves board seem determined not to let history repeat itself. With key players like Matheus Cunha, Nelson Semedo, Craig Dawson, and Mario Lemina all returning from recent injuries, Wolves are in a stronger position to face upcoming challenges, including their next match against Newcastle United. Pereira’s positive injury updates have provided a much-needed morale boost, and the squad now looks better equipped to tackle the demanding fixtures ahead.

Adding to the good news is the return of midfielder Boubacar Traoré to training at Compton Park. The 23-year-old has not featured for Wolves since August, when he suffered a meniscus injury in a Carabao Cup match against Burnley. The injury not only sidelined him for months but also scuppered a potential loan move to Feyenoord. Traoré, who joined Wolves permanently from Metz for £9.5 million after an initial loan spell, underwent surgery and has been working hard on his recovery. His return to the training pitch marks a significant step in his rehabilitation, and fans will be eager to see him back in action soon.

Traoré’s absence has been felt, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding the future of Mario Lemina. Should Lemina depart, Traoré could serve as a valuable replacement in midfield. Both players share similar playing styles, characterized by their ability to break up play and drive the team forward. However, given Traoré’s lack of match fitness and the club’s long-term plans, there remains the possibility of a loan move to help him regain form and sharpness. Still, many fans would prefer to see Pereira give him a chance in the first team, as Traoré has shown flashes of potential in the past. Former Wolves boss Gary O’Neil described Traoré as having “a big future,” and supporters hope he can realize that promise at Molineux.

The return of Traoré and the bolstering of the squad with players like Agbadou highlight Pereira’s proactive approach to addressing Wolves’ vulnerabilities. However, there is still work to be done. Strengthening key areas of the squad, particularly in attack and midfield, remains a priority as the transfer window approaches its final stages. Wolves must avoid the pitfalls of previous seasons, ensuring they have the depth and quality needed to weather the rigors of the Premier League.

Pereira’s early success has inspired confidence, but the battle for survival is far from over. Wolves’ ability to maintain their recent form, integrate returning players like Traoré, and make smart moves in the transfer market will determine whether they can pull away from the relegation zone. Fans will be hoping this newfound momentum carries the team through the second half of the season, paving the way for stability and a brighter future at Molineux.