Why Wolves need to be more pragmatic to succeed in the Premier League

In terms of playing style, Wolverhampton Wanderers have started the season very well. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is an adamant boss who plays an open passing brand of football, making it quite easy on the eye for everyone.

Wolves slammed past many teams in the Championship with their expansive style of play and high-pressing. However, the English top-flight is quite different from the second-tier. The Premier League is intense, high-paced and varied in terms of different teams playing contrasting styles of football.

So, adjusting to this type of league should be the first and foremost thing for a promoted club. Nuno and his men need to realise that this is the highest echelon of football in England, and possibly in Europe. Therefore, they should weigh themselves up, at least during their first season back in the top division.

Here’s why Wolves need to be a little pragmatic in their approach if they are to have steady success in the Premier League:

The toughest league has imperious opponents week in and week out

Every game in the Premier League has its own significance due to the level of opponents. Even the lowest-ranked team could be a tough assignment on a particular matchday. In the modern age, playing expansive football is favoured and that’s not wrong because it is more attractive to watch and pleasant on the eye.

But in the case of Wolves, this is the season where they need to be a little measured and look to adapt rather than imposing their own style. Sacrificing some of their footballing philosophies for one season would certainly not send them back to the Championship. It is just that this league demands respect from the teams coming up, which is why the word “adaptability” is vital.

For instance, they played good football against Everton on the opening day at Molineux but they were undone by a simple ball into the box from a set-piece. This is where the experience comes in, since Everton defended well and saw opportunities arise.

Verdict

The viewpoint here is that Wolves could be a great Premier League team, as they have a varied group of players. That said, they just need to get past the initial phase before stamping their authority in the top-flight.