Wolves Predicted Lineup for Bournemouth Clash: Edwards Set to Ring Changes
Wolverhampton Wanderers return to Premier League action this weekend, aiming to secure only their second victory of a challenging 2025/26 campaign. The Midlands club currently languish at the foot of the table after twenty-three fixtures, occupying the bottom spot alongside Burnley and West Ham United. With a daunting seventeen-point gap separating them from safety, where Nottingham Forest reside in seventeenth position, the pressure is mounting at Molineux.
Rob Edwards, appointed earlier this summer as the successor to Vitor Pereira, faces a critical task. The former Watford and Luton Town manager departed Middlesbrough to take the helm at Wolves, inheriting a squad in desperate need of a turnaround. As they prepare to host AFC Bournemouth, speculation surrounds his team selection, with two anticipated changes to the starting eleven.
Goalkeeper and Defence: Potential Debut Between the Sticks
Goalkeeper: Sam Johnstone is tipped to start in goal, potentially replacing Jose Sa. Reports from The Athletic suggest Sa has been linked with a January transfer to Nottingham Forest, paving the way for Johnstone to make his mark.
Right Wing-Back: Jackson Tchatchoua is expected to retain his place. The dynamic defender, who joined from Hellas Verona last summer, is known for his energetic runs and offensive contributions down the flank.
Centre-Backs: The defensive trio is predicted to consist of Yerson Mosquera, Santiago Bueno, and Ladislav Krejci. Mosquera has been a regular feature this season, while Bueno started in the recent 2-0 defeat to Manchester City. Krejci, on loan from Girona with a purchase option, provides stability, though his future may hinge on the club's league status.
Left Wing-Back: Hugo Bueno is set to continue, having established himself as a key first-team player this term after a patient rise through the ranks.
Midfield and Attack: Fresh Faces in the Forward Line
Central Midfield: The engine room is likely to feature Joao Gomes and Andre. Both players face uncertain futures, with Gomes linked to Manchester United and Andre attracting interest from other suitors, but they remain crucial for Edwards in the interim.
Attacking Midfield: Eighteen-year-old Mateus Mane is predicted to operate in the advanced playmaker role. Since his 2024 arrival from Rochdale, Mane has played with impressive freedom and will be eager to unsettle the Bournemouth defence.
Forwards: Rob Edwards is forecast to make a significant change up front, with Tolu Arokodare potentially coming in for Jhon Arias. This switch would add a more physical presence to Wolves' attack, offering a different dimension against the Cherries. Alongside him, Hwang Hee-chan is expected to start, bringing his trademark pace, power, and experience—the thirty-year-old South Korean has nearly 350 career appearances and 89 goals to his name.
This predicted lineup reflects Edwards' potential strategy to inject fresh energy and tactical variation as Wolves seek a vital three points in their battle for Premier League survival.
