Wolves January Window and Championship Planning Concerns

With relegation looking increasingly likely, questions mount over Wolves' recruitment strategy and whether the club has a coherent plan for rebuilding in the Championship.

The lack of a clear plan and the pervasive negativity around Wolves feels more detrimental than the results themselves. This month alone, winnable matches against Everton and Newcastle slipped away, games that could have provided crucial breathing space. The recruitment issues remain glaring: a forward and a right wing-back were needed from January 1st, and those positions remain unfilled.

On paper, relegation looks inevitable. But we've been supporters through far worse, and Fosun should respect that loyalty. The expectation isn't unreasonable: £20m invested in loan players to have a proper go over the final five months. Instead, there's a sense of downing tools and playing the victim card, whether that's coming from the club hierarchy, certain players, or sections of the support.

The Che Adams Question

The links to Che Adams raise genuine concerns about recruitment strategy. At 29, is he the sort of investment Wolves should be making? The preference should be for younger players who can develop, similar to how Neves and Jota arrived with potential still to unlock. If we're paying over the odds for Adams, it represents a significant commitment to a player we'd be relying on heavily for a promotion campaign.

There are three key reservations. First, his age means the pace that made him effective will naturally decline. Second, his injury record isn't encouraging, even if he can be a real handful on his day. Third, there's a track record of sulking when competition arrives, evidenced at both Blues and Southampton when other forwards came in.

That might sound harsh, but it's a realistic assessment when comparing alternatives. Callum Wilson would bring English football experience and Championship know-how despite his age. Kieron Bowie looks precisely the profile Wolves need: hungry, pacy, and with the potential to grow into Premier League football if promotion is achieved. McAtee would represent a far more exciting investment than Adams if the funds are available.

Wider Squad Concerns

Beyond the attack, there's the fundamental question of defensive shape. Do we persist with a back three or transition to a back four? If it's the latter, that defence needs a complete overhaul. Doc might stay for experience and leadership, but the rest need serious scrutiny.

Mosquera remains injury-prone. Bueno and Toti look suited to a back three but haven't convinced in a four. Krejci struggled when tried in a back four earlier this season, and Doc no longer has the recovery pace his position demands. We also need more pace and balance on the wings. Jackson hasn't shown the tactical awareness or speed to read the game quickly enough. Rodrigo Gomes might develop into that role next season, with Bueno potentially staying on the left.

Planning for the Championship

Looking ahead, the reality is stark. Hwang, Arias, Gomes, Andre, Wolfe and Sa won't be here next season. There's also the Johnstone question: do we persist with him, or does Bentley become first choice?

A possible Championship lineup might include Bentley in goal, a back four of Rodrigo Gomes, Mosquera, Krejci and Bueno, a midfield three of Doyle, McAtee and Mane, with Bowie, Tolu and Wilson up front. On paper it looks exciting, but there are legitimate questions. Would Tolu and Wilson, or Adams if he arrives, score enough goals for promotion? Can Rodrigo Gomes and Mosquera stay fit? Can you trust Bentley or Johnstone over a 46-game season?

Otele would add genuine pace and trickery if that deal could be done. But the depth throughout the squad remains a massive concern. These are the harsh reality checks facing the entire playing staff if we're planning seriously for next season in the Championship.

Written by Madman January 30 2026 18:11:55