Wolves announced that Mario Lemina would be named the new captain for the 2024/25 season and supporters have now reacted to this news.
Following the departure of captain Max Kilman to West Ham this summer, many were left wondering who was going to be named the new captain of Wolves.
Realistically, there were only a few options to pick from, namely veteran defender Craig Dawson and all-action midfielder Mario Lemina, with Gary O’Neil opting to go for the latter.
In a statement on the official club website, O’Neil described Lemina as the ‘standout choice’ to be given the armband while claiming he’s ‘very good at portraying the messages’ he wants to get across to his players.
Few could have any complaints with the decision to award the Gabon international the captaincy, as he’s shown leadership both on and off the pitch since he arrived at Molineux.
Wolves fans react after Mario Lemina named captain for the 2024/25 season
The 30-year-old was one of O’Neil’s most important players last term, as he formed an instrumental partnership alongside Joao Gomes.
Lemina’s consistent performances led to interest from Turkey as a result, but the club have well and truly put those rumours to bed by giving him the armband.
Reacting to this news via X, floods of responses came in from the fans, who were understandably pleased to see him succeed Kilman as captain.
One supporter said: “So unbelievably happy with this. Excellent choice,” while another felt it was a big upgrade on Kilman, saying: “Fantastic choice and with all due respect to Kilman, a big upgrade.”
A third said: “Marioooooooo. Buzzing for him. Great role model who is well respected by all.”
A fifth supporter chimed in: “Perfect choice. Mario is a true leader,” while a sixth said: “Massive news, and the best man for the job. Gonna be unreal seeing what having a proper leader does for this team.”
Another continued: “Would’ve loved to see Cunha get it but genuinely buzzing with this. Super Mario.”
Mario Lemina deserved the armband
Lemina arrived at Wolves when his stock was low but the midfield machine has turned his career around under O’Neil and fully deserves to be captain.
Last season, he led by example on and off the pitch with his incredible all-action displays. It truly feels as though Lemina is reaching the peak of his powers at Wolves and at the age of 30, he still has another couple of years at the top of his game.
He was partly responsible for Gomes seeing his confidence skyrocket and the Brazilian formed what was a brilliant partnership with his experienced compatriot.
Not only that but O’Neil has explained how vocal he is in the dressing room, helping the manager get the point across to his players and proving he knows what it means to wear the badge.
Lemina has had some low points in his career but being named the captain of Wolves will be a high point after finding a home in Wolverhampton.