Wolves sack Lopetegui, appoints Gary O’Neil as his successor

Wolves today confirmed it has parted ways with Spaniard coach Julen Lopetegui following his 9 months spell at the club. Julien helped relegation-threatened Wolves escape relegation last season winning nine games which aided Wolves to a sixth place finish. 

The club announced his sack and barely 20 hours later he was replaced by Gary O’Neil.

“Wolves and Julen Lopetegui have reached an agreement to part ways, ending the Spaniard’s nine-month reign as head coach at the club.”

Sporting director Matt Hobbs on Lopetegui sack said: “On behalf of everyone at the club I’d like to thank Julen and his staff for their dedication and hard work during their time at the football club. They came in primarily to secure the club’s position in the Premier League last season and achieved this objective with games to spare.

“Although we aimed to transition into the new season together, everyone knows we had differing opinions on certain crucial matters. All parties reached an agreement that it would be most beneficial to separate before the commencement of the new campaign.

“After a successful pre-season, full of hard work and good performances, Julen and his staff leave the squad in great shape ahead of the season opener next week, which will give his successor the best possible platform for success.

“We wish Julen and his team the very best of luck for the future, and they will always be welcome at Wolves.”

Lopetegui said: “I wish Wolves and everybody at the club the very best of luck for the future, and thank them for the opportunity granted at the time to take charge of this wonderful club.

“It has been an honour to enjoy this adventure in the day-to-day company of Matt Hobbs, Matt Wild, head of player care Lisa Hollis and every single employee of the club; whom I wish to thank for their support and help at every moment.

“Also, of course, I want to thank the players, who have always given the maximum to achieve our objectives, and especially the fans that made me feel like one of them from the very first moment and have always been amazing to me, my staff and my family.”

The club also confirmed the signing of O’Neil:

“Wolves have appointed Gary O’Neil as the club’s new head coach ahead of the 2023/24 Premier League season.”