For Wolverhampton Wanderers, this wasn't just another defeat; it felt like a breaking point. A sobering 2-0 loss away to Sunderland left Wolves rooted to the bottom of the Premier League table, still searching for their first win of the season, making them the only team in the top five divisions in England without a win. The numbers are damning: five goals scored, 16 conceded, and a growing sense that Vítor Pereira's project is unravelling before it has truly begun.
At the Stadium of Light, Wolves were once again guilty of controlling large spells of possession without threatening where it truly matters. They saw nearly 60% of the ball but looked blunt, predictable, and short of confidence in the final third.
Sunderland, by contrast, were disciplined, energetic, and ruthlessly efficient. Nordi Mukiele’s early strike gave them the platform, while a stoppage-time own goal from Ladislav Krejčí sealed another miserable afternoon for the travelling Wolves support. For Pereira, the pressure is building fast.
A system struggling to function
After changing from the 3-4-2-1 formation, Pereira has spent the past few weeks using a 4-3-3 in search of greater balance. On paper, the change should have helped Wolves progress the ball quicker through midfield and support the forward line. In practice, the same flaws remain.
Against Sunderland, Wolves had almost 60% possession yet rarely threatened, build-up play was practically non-existent, the midfield trio of André, João Gomes, and Marshall Munetsi was constantly overrun, plenty of effort but no cohesion.
Up front, Jørgen Strand Larsen cut an isolated figure once again. Before the game, Pereira advised that he wasn't 100% fit despite him playing the full 90 minutes. Jackson Tchatchoua was dropped despite being one of the best players against Brighton, and when he did make it on the pitch, he was used out of position on the right wing.
A crisis of confidence
It's not just about tactics anymore; it's about belief. Wolves’ football has become hesitant, cautious, almost fearful. Passes that once zipped are now delayed. Players glance sideways instead of forward. There’s no fluency, no conviction. You could sense the anxiety in every misplaced cross and hesitant shot on Wearside.
The absence of visible leadership on the pitch is becoming increasingly apparent. Without a commanding presence to inspire and direct, the team's collective confidence has diminished. This lack of direction is evident in their performances, where even fundamental aspects of the game, such as pressing, tracking, and maintaining tempo, are being executed with hesitation and uncertainty.
Fans running out of patience
The Wolves faithful travelled up north in numbers, their loyalty undimmed, but by full-time, the frustration was impossible to ignore. Many are calling for the manager to be sacked, while others are aiming their anger at the ownership.
Social media echoed that mood. Supporters questioned the lack of attacking intent, the absence of identity, and Pereira’s apparent reluctance to make bold tactical adjustments. The concern isn’t just that Wolves are losing, it’s that they look lost. When results are poor and performances lack spark, supporters inevitably start wondering if the manager’s message is still landing.
With the upcoming game against Burnley now effectively a must-win, Wolves face a critical opportunity to build momentum. Failure to respond risks them becoming seriously adrift by Christmas, making the climb back up the table even more difficult.
Wolverhampton Wanderers are at a defining moment in their season. Ten months under Vítor Pereira have yet to yield the stability or results fans hoped for, and the team’s struggles on the pitch have left them rooted at the bottom of the Premier League. If Wolves are to turn their campaign around, decisive action, clear direction, and improved performances are essential. How the squad responds in the coming weeks will determine whether they can halt their slide and restore belief, or continue down a path of uncertainty.
