Julen Lopetegui’s time as Wolves boss ended abruptly in the summer just days before the Premier League opener.
It was thought he was frustrated with the lack of ambition and transfer backing displayed at Wolves.
The financial situation didn’t offer much space for Wolves to bring players in, however it was seen late in the window that a big sale opened the door for that.
Julen Lopetegui is known to be ambitious however, given his success in his career, so when looking to build on last season, it was probably a huge blow that he wasn’t able to.
This is what the report by The Athletic adds to, as they hold the first interview, post Molineux sacking, with Lopetegui.
Lopetegui on what Wolves chiefs told him
Speaking with The Athletic exclusively, Lopetegui detailed his ambition to attack the top half of the table, in a manner similar to Aston Villa and Brighton before them.
However he explained that upon revealing these goals, he was told something that ended in his departure.
“But for different things, the club cannot do this kind of project (Reach top half).
“When we started pre-season, they told me that it’s impossible to develop this project. And we decided to part ways”.
Quite a damning revelation which will have many now sympathetic to the efforts of Gary O’Neil.
Could Wolves have finished in the top half?
Given how Wolves have started the season, it is difficult to imagine that Wolves could instead be challenging for top half.
A lot of work would have been needed with the squad, but we can’t bet against Lopetegui given the miraculous work he did last season.
With the Spaniard getting the same budget toward the end of the window, we have to imagine he would get the players he needs in for success.
Especially considering the fine margins which has seen Wolves lose games this season, a little extra managerial quality could have made a world of difference.