Wolves Sink to Worst Start in Premier League History Amid Ownership and Management Turmoil
Wolves have recorded the worst start in Premier League history, amassing only 2 points from their first 17 games. This dire position means that to tie Derby County's 2007-08 record low of 11 points after 17 matches, Wolves would need a significant improvement in form.
Last season, Wolves finished 16th under the management of Vitor Pereira, who was appointed on 19 December after a poor start. Pereira earned 23 points from the final 22 games, including an impressive run of six straight wins.
However, the club's decline is part of a multi-year pattern, marked by the sale of key players without adequate replacements. Summer departures included Cunha to Manchester United, Aït-Nouri to Manchester City, Fábio Silva to Borussia Dortmund, Guedes to Real Sociedad, and Sarabia and Semedo leaving on free transfers. Collectively, these six players accounted for 115 league starts last season. Additionally, players such as Neto, Kilman, and Lemina left last season, with Nunes, Neves, and Collins having departed in previous years, fueling perceptions of a downward trajectory.
Rob Edwards was appointed head coach to try to salvage the season following Pereira's departure. Edwards' managerial history includes relegation with Luton and a stint at Watford, leading to concerns about whether his reputation will recover regardless of the season's outcome.
Off the pitch, Wolves have experienced turbulence in leadership. Chairman Jeff Shi stepped down on Saturday, with Nathan Shi appointed as interim chairman while Fosun remains the club's owner. The reasons behind Jeff Shi's resignation remain unclear amid ongoing fan protests.
