Gary O’ Neil understands every game is a “take points or disappear” game. The Wolverhampton manager is therefore doing everything he can in terms of changes and adjustments to keep his place in the Premier League – and his own job. For Mario Lemina it means that he has to do as Harry Maguire does.
Erik ten Hag demoted Maguire as captain before last season and gave the managerial responsibilities to Bruno Fernandes. For many United supporters, a right choice, but for Maguire, a real personal downfall. Now it’s Wolves captain Lemina’s turn.
Five months ago, O’Neil gave the 31-year-old the responsibility of leading the team out on the match arena, this week the change came. Nelson Semedo is the new captain of the Wolves from Molineux.
“I have great respect for Mario Lemina and for what he can still contribute to us. When we get the best out of him on the pitch, his level is extremely high and he will continue to play a big role for us, which is something he is very keen on,” the Wolves manager began, according to The Athletic.
“He will still be part of the captaincy group, but at the moment we feel it’s best that Nelson Semedo is captain,” said Gary O’Neil.
The fact that Lemina got into a physical clinch with West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen in Monday’s Premier League game certainly contributed to the demotion.
