It is safe to say that many controversial things happened at Wolves in 2023.
Ultimately, it’s been a good year for the club because Premier League survival was secured at the end of last season, and Wolves have been able to kick on this term under Gary O’Neil.
But many controversial things have happened this calendar year, and Molineux News looks back on three situations that arguably prompted the biggest reaction…
#3 – Matheus Nunes goes on strike to force Manchester City transfer
Most Wolves fans knew that Matheus Nunes was not really going to be at the club for a long time.
When he signed for the club from Sporting CP, there were even reports of an agreement to leave after just one season.
After an underwhelming first campaign, reports began to surface about Wolves’ worrying financial situation, and big-name players were then being sold by the club.
With just days left in the transfer window, Manchester City came calling for Nunes – but Wolves were adamant they would get a premium price for the midfielder if they were to lose the 25-year-old so late in the window.
Concerned the opportunity to join City was going to pass him by, Nunes then did something that would really rile up the fans – he went on strike.
After Wolves rejected a £47 million bid from City for Nunes, the 25-year-old stopped training to try and force a move, with many slamming his behaviour. He got his way in the end, but the club were able to bank £53 million, which was a good fee for someone who undoubtedly flattered to deceive in a Wolves shirt.
#2 – Julen Lopetegui’s departure
Wolves tried to hire Julen Lopetegui years ago, but the opportunity to manage Spain saw Wanderers miss out.
Just over a year ago, Lopetegui became available again after leaving Sevilla and Wolves decided to make another play for the Spaniard.
After initially being turned down again, and then speaking to Mick Beale, Lopetegui changed his mind and accepted the job.
He did a fine job, signing the right players in January and turning Wolves into a team that was difficult to beat, especially at home.
But Lopetegui then began to grow frustrated upon learning of the club’s financial position and apparently, he felt the goalposts had been moved. His frustrations were understandable, but the 57-year-old continued to speak about it and some fans grew tired.
His interview with journalist Guillem Balague really annoyed some supporters, and reportedly also irritated officials at the club.
After informing Matt Hobbs at the pre-season game with Celtic that he was ready to leave, Lopetegui officially departed on August 8, just days before the new Premier League season.
#1 – VAR
Granted, this is not so much a controversial ‘moment’, but it just made sense to give VAR its own slot right at the top of this list.
It is truly incredible to reflect back on the year Wolves have had with VAR and the PGMOL.
Wanderers have had some absolutely rotten luck this year. To the point were some are now questioning if luck really even comes into it.
Toti Gomes’ winner against Liverpool in the FA Cup being chalked off after cameras couldn’t determine if Nunes was offside. Nick Pope taking out Raul Jimenez at St. James’ Park. Mario Lemina being sent off for apparently going over to the referee in an aggressive manner and being the ‘third player’ in his vicinity. Andre Onana clattering Sasa Kalajdzic and no penalty being awarded. Penalties being given against Hwang Hee-chan and Fabio Silva for dives by opponents.
These were just a few of many shocking incidents to have taken place this year.
All clubs have bad decisions go against them, but with Wolves it has just felt absolutely incessant and both Julen Lopetegui and Gary O’Neil have understandably cut incredibly frustrated figures in interviews.
The club have had several apologies though so everything is fine…