Gary O’Neil’s tumultuous tenure as Wolverhampton Wanderers manager has come to an abrupt end. The 41-year-old’s departure follows Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town, a result that exposed Wolves’ glaring vulnerabilities.
Just three days ago, Wolves chairman Jeff Shi publicly backed O’Neil, emphasizing the club’s unity behind him. However, Saturday’s loss proved catastrophic. Wolves’ 11th Premier League defeat this season leaves them 19th, a daunting four points from safety.
Appointed just four days before the 2023-24 season commenced, O’Neil replaced Julen Lopetegui. Wolves finished 14th last season, but this term’s poor start – seven losses and one draw in eight games – set alarm bells ringing.
A brief resurgence, characterized by four unbeaten games and successive wins over Southampton and Fulham, raised hopes. Yet, defeats to Bournemouth, Everton, West Ham, and Ipswich underscored Wolves’ persistent struggles.
Conceding a league-high 40 goals, with 13 matches featuring two or more goals against, highlights Wolves’ defensive woes. Off-field controversies have exacerbated the situation.
Mario Lemina’s altercation with West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen led to him being stripped of the captaincy. Saturday’s defeat saw Rayan Ait-Nouri sent off, while Matheus Cunha clashed with Ipswich security, and Liam Delap was involved in a scuffle. These incidents betray a deeper malaise within the club.
Post-defeat, O’Neil confessed, “I’ve never had such a struggle” coaching a group of players. This candid admission foreshadowed his departure.
