Three Premier League managers have already lost their jobs, still in October. Now it is reported that number four is next. Even though the contract extension came as late as September.
It was both recognition, but also a big surprise when Wolverhampton extended their contract with Vitor Pereira after losing four games at the start of the season. The extension was supposed to provide peace of mind, but has not resulted in a change of course. Two points after 8 games are on course for relegation.
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The Portuguese coach arrived at Molineux in December last year and led the club from 19th to 16th place and secured survival in the Premier League. However, Pereira has failed to inspire his players this season and is in danger of losing his job. Not even Jørgen Strand Larsen, who hammered in league goals last season (14) can find the back of the net in the Premier League.
Wolves made a big decision back in September when they offered a new three-year contract to Pereira, despite the club losing their first four Premier League games. The decision surprised many, as the club looked terribly bad at the time. The club’s stance on offering a new deal was explained through an official statement from chairman Jeff Shi: “Vitor has made a very positive impact during his time at Wolves. He has brought clarity, energy and a team spirit that gives us a foundation for success. His achievements last season were excellent, with a highly competitive record, including six consecutive Premier League wins and a deserved nomination for the Manager of the Season award. Now it’s time for stability. Vitor needs time to work with the squad, build chemistry with new players, and we will do everything to support him and his staff.”
It was September. According to former Premier League chief scout Mick Brown, Vitor have four games to convince.
“It will be a concern for Wolves right now if they don’t improve. They can end up in a difficult situation, and when that usually happens, you see a potential coaching move. They have Chelsea in the Carabao Cup, Fulham away after the Burnley game, and then Chelsea away. So there are some difficult games after the Burnley game for Wolves and Vitor Pereira. And then we have the international break, and that could be the time if things haven’t improved. If they haven’t picked up too many points in their next three Premier League games, you could possibly see the pressure that is really on Pereira. When you get the international break, it gives the clubs the opportunity to assess things, and it can make them force a change Molineux,” Brown says in a podcast on Inside Track.
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