After a 2-0 victory over Manchester United, Wolves' new coach Victor Pereira could not contain his joy:
In front of 31,407 home spectators, Pereira threw three punches and then roared in celebration with raised arms. Less than 50 meters away in the stands, Wolves fans waved flags and chanted Pereira's name. Such a scene is invigorating. It reminds you of former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who was equally passionate and fiery.
For Wolves, the past four days have been like a long-awaited rain, refreshing and exhilarating.
On December 22nd, in the 17th round of the Premier League, Pereira made his debut as Wolves' coach with a clean 3-0 win over Leicester City. After four consecutive defeats in the Premier League, Wolves stopped their slump with one victory.
On December 26th, in the 18th round of the Premier League, facing compatriot Amorim's Manchester United, Pereira's 3-4-2-1 formation proved more efficient and cohesive. Cunha scored one goal and provided one assist, while Hwang Hee-chan sealed the deal with a late goal, securing another 2-0 victory and three points.
In just four short days, with a 3-0 and a 2-0 victory, Wolves staged an "escape from death."
Under Gary O'Neil's coaching, Wolves had two wins, three draws, and eleven losses in 16 matches, accumulating only nine points and ranking second to last, five points behind 17th-placed Leicester City. After two consecutive victories, Wolves surpassed Ipswich and Leicester City, rising to 17th place and escaping the relegation zone.
It's still too early to say that Wolves are safe from relegation. However, Pereira's impact on the team is evident.
Compared to his predecessor Gary O'Neil, Pereira's style is more pronounced. Although both use a 3-4-2-1 formation, Pereira emphasizes pressing, defensive discipline, and has more passion and fighting spirit. A change of coach is like a change of knife, establishing authority and bringing about a change in temperament, which can also inspire the whole team and boost morale.
Wolves sought help from super-agent Mendes, with immediate results. After dismissing Gary O'Neil, Wolves' investor Fosun International hired Pereira, a client of Mendes. As early as eight years ago, Mendes recommended Pereira to Fosun boss Guangchang Guo. This winter transfer window, Wolves are looking to bring in new players, and Pereira will lead the pack in pursuit of a better ranking.