It has been a difficult opening half of the 2022/23 Premier League campaign for Wolves, with just four wins coming from their 20 matches. However, there is a lot to be optimistic about going into the second half of the season.
Here are three reasons why Wolves have a good chance of climbing up the table by the time the campaign is over.
Julen Lopetegui Has Given the Squad A Lift
Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui has managed some of the biggest clubs in the world. It was a huge coup to land a manager of his calibre back in December. Since arriving at Molineux, he has given the squad a big lift, and that is reflected in their results, with wins coming over Everton, West Ham and Gillingham (FA Cup).
With Lopetegui in charge, Wolves are now as short as 1/4 in the Premier League football odds to avoid relegation. The Spaniard will be hoping for more results like the ones against Everton and West Ham.
The Premier League tips from Paddy Power experts for the second half of the season are likely to include Wolves frequently, especially against teams around them in the table. They look like a completely different team from the one which struggled for results before the World Cup break.
Strong January Transfer Window
Our second signing under Julen Lopetegui ??@LeminaM_13 joins on a two-and-a-half-year deal.
— Wolves (@Wolves) January 13, 2023
It has been an excellent January transfer window for Wolves. Lopetegui has been able to bolster his squad with some quality signings. One of those acquisitions has been Mario Lemina from Nice. The Gabon midfielder has featured in the Premier League before for Fulham and Southampton. The former Juventus player has settled into the club quickly.
The signing of Craig Dawson from West Ham is a deal that gives Lopetegui more options at the back. Wolves have been linked with the centre back in previous transfer windows, but they have finally signed the experienced 32-year-old, who will also chip in with goals from corners and set-pieces.
More smart business was done with the signing of Pablo Sarabia from PSG. Lopetegui knows him well as he has played 26 times for the Spain national team, including when the now Wolves boss was in charge.
Daniel Podence Looking in Good Form
Since Lopetegui arrived, Portuguese forward Daniel Podence has been in the best form he has shown in a Wolves shirt. The 27-year-old has found the back of the net against Everton, Aston Villa and West Ham. Those three goals have been vital in picking up valuable points against relegation rivals.
Great Team Spirit. New Era ?? pic.twitter.com/EDllibtGBo
— Daniel Podence (@daniel_podence) December 21, 2022
Podence’s goal against Aston Villa was nominated as one of the contenders for the Premier League Goal of the Month Award in January. It was a superb solo strike that came after dribbling past two players into the box before beating World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez.
As well as finding the back of the net, Podence has been providing assists to his teammates. He is going to be a key player for his side until the final game of the season in May.
Wolves have played in the Premier League in each of the last four seasons. Hopefully, they remain in the top flight of English football for the 2023/23 campaign.
