Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) have parted ways with manager Gary O’Neil following a string of poor results that left the club languishing second from bottom in the Premier League.
O’Neil’s departure comes after Wolves suffered a 2-1 defeat at home to fellow strugglers Ipswich on Saturday, their fourth consecutive league loss. The club has managed just nine points from 16 matches this season.
In a statement on Sunday, Wolves said: “”Wolves have parted company with head coach Gary O’Neil and his backroom staff. O’Neil arrived at Molineux just three days before the start of the 2023/24 Premier League season, taking on a significant challenge and ultimately guiding the Old Gold to a successful campaign.
O’Neil, 41, took charge of Wolves in August 2023, just days before the start of the season, replacing Julen Lopetegui. Despite guiding the team to a 14th-place finish last season and signing a four-year contract extension in August, this campaign has been fraught with difficulties.
The Wolves chairman, Jeff Shi, acknowledged O’Neil’s contribution: “We’re very grateful to Gary for all of his effort, dedication and hard work during his time at the club, and we wish him and his team the best of luck for the future.”
The recent defeats have been marked by disciplinary issues. Last Monday, midfielder Mario Lemina was involved in a post-match altercation with West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen, leading to Lemina being stripped of the captaincy.
On Saturday, emotions boiled over again when Rayan Ait-Nouri received a second yellow card, and Matheus Cunha had to be restrained during heated post-match scenes. Following the Ipswich loss, O’Neil called for accountability.
Wolves are expected to name a replacement swiftly as they aim to salvage their season and avoid relegation.
