Mateus Mane has been a hot topic among fans over recent weeks amid Wolves’ ongoing struggles in the final third.
The youngster is a talented forward, and there have been calls for Vitor Pereira to give him a chance in the first team with the other attackers misfiring.
Liam Keen suggested Mane’s minutes would be limited this season, and that will not be the news fans want to hear.
However, despite the perceived lack of opportunities for the 18-year-old, Vitor Pereira appears to be a big fan of the player based on his latest admission.
Vitor Pereira speaks on Mateus Mane ahead of Burnley
Mateus Mane believes he is ready for regular first-team football, but so far Vitor Pereira has seemed to disagree.
Wolves have scored just five Premier League goals this season, and it makes sense for fans to want fresh blood in the squad to try and solve those problems.
The Old Gold head coach has shown a willingness to try something different. He has changed formation and has also stated he will try full-backs as wingers and vice versa.
However, news on the Mateus Mane front has been quiet, but after calls from fans for the player to be given a bigger role, Vitor Pereira has finally spoken about him.
Pereira said, “It was me that pushed the club to keep Mane and his contract. I believe he will be a top player in this league, not only at our club but in the league. He’s young, but he’s a talent, and he’s very focused. He’s working hard.”
There was no mention of Mane’s potential involvement against Burnley, but Pereira has no injury concerns, and based on previous weeks, that will not signal good news for Mane and his chances.
Hopefully, the 57-year-old springs a surprise, which would provide some excitement on Sunday. Even if he does not, fans must be patient.
Fans must be patient with Mane
Mateus Mane is still just 18 years old, and clamouring for him to come into the team and be a ‘saviour’ for the club is an unfair expectation for him.
The player is talented, and Vitor Pereira clearly rates him after pushing for him to sign a new deal.
Every footballer has a different cycle, and they hit their strides at differing points. Not every player follows the same trajectory.
Wolves are in a tough situation, and toxicity is starting to build around the club, which is understandable given the results.
However, that is not the ideal environment for a young player to come into. Let’s be patient, and when Mane gets his chance, we can all get behind him.