Wolverhampton Wanderers players have returned to the training ground for the start of pre-season, as the club gears up for its first Championship campaign in six years. The squad reported for duty at the Compton Park training centre on Monday, with new manager Gary O'Neil overseeing his first full pre-season session.
First Day Back
The players underwent fitness tests and medical assessments before taking to the pitches for light training. Among those spotted were captain Max Kilman, midfielders Joao Gomes and Mario Lemina, and forward Matheus Cunha. Several players who spent time on loan last season, such as Daniel Podence and Goncalo Guedes, also returned.
O'Neil, who took over in August 2023, has been working with his coaching staff to prepare a rigorous pre-season schedule. The team is set to travel to Portugal for a training camp later this month, followed by a series of friendlies against lower-league opposition.
Championship Challenge
Wolves were relegated from the Premier League on the final day of the 2023-24 season after a 2-0 defeat at Liverpool. The club finished 18th with 36 points, ending a six-year stay in the top flight. Now, they face the challenge of bouncing back at the first attempt in a highly competitive Championship.
According to the club's official website, O'Neil said: "The players have come back in good shape, and we're excited to get going. We have a lot of work to do, but the attitude has been excellent. Everyone is focused on the task ahead."
Transfer Activity
Wolves have been active in the transfer market, bringing in several new signings to strengthen the squad. Defender Matt Doherty has returned to the club on a free transfer after his release from Tottenham Hotspur. Midfielder Tommy Doyle has joined on a permanent deal from Manchester City after a successful loan spell. Additionally, forward Nathan Fraser has been promoted from the academy after impressing in the under-21s.
Several players have left the club, including goalkeeper Jose Sa, who joined Benfica, and midfielder Ruben Neves, who moved to Al-Hilal. The club is also expected to offload more players to balance the books and reduce the wage bill.
Pre-Season Friendlies
Wolves have announced a series of pre-season friendlies to prepare for the Championship season. They will face League Two side Port Vale on July 20, followed by a match against League One outfit Barnsley on July 23. The team will then travel to Portugal for a training camp, where they will play two behind-closed-doors friendlies against local sides.
Their final pre-season fixture will be at home against La Liga side Celta Vigo on August 3. The Championship season is scheduled to start on the weekend of August 10-11, with Wolves' opening fixture to be announced later this month.
Fan Expectations
Wolves fans are optimistic about the club's chances of an immediate return to the Premier League. The club has retained key players like Pedro Neto and Rayan Ait-Nouri, who were linked with moves away but have remained at Molineux. The board has backed O'Neil with funds for new signings, and the squad depth looks promising.
However, the Championship is notoriously difficult, with many clubs vying for promotion. Wolves will need to hit the ground running and maintain consistency throughout the season. O'Neil's experience in the Championship from his time at Bournemouth could prove invaluable.
