For the first time in years, Wolves supporters can feel confident about their chances of progression under Vitor Pereira.
The Portuguese tactician successfully dragged Wolves from relegation and led them 17 points clear of the bottom three.
It’s been a truly transformational period under Vitor Pereira, who was praised by Jamie Carragher for the job he’s done.
Now that survival is secure for another campaign, Pereira is predicting ‘big things’ for Wolves following five straight Premier League wins.
And when they host Leicester City on Saturday, fans will truly see his stance on one player as we head towards the transfer window.
- READ MORE: The 67-year record Wolves can equal against Leicester City as Vitor Pereira eyes another milestone
Vitor Pereira must start Jean-Ricner Bellegarde over Matheus Cunha
Fans will be intrigued by the team selection against the Foxes. Pereira has hinted at a debut for Mateus Mane, one of the academy’s most talented youngsters, while the big dilemma is what to do with Matheus Cunha.
It’s been reported that Manchester United are closing in on Cunha, who constantly drops hints on social media over where his future lies, adding further fuel to speculation.
Wolves supporters want Cunha dropped against Leicester as they would rather play someone who is going to be at the club next season, which is why Jean-Ricner Bellegarde must replace him.
The Frenchman was left out of the squad completely during the win over Man United, but Pereira confirmed that Bellegarde is set to return after training on Thursday.
Team news: "Sa is OK and working with the team. Bellegarde and Hwang trained yesterday and I believe they can help the team." #wwfc
— Liam Keen (@LiamKeen_Star) April 25, 2025
Impressively, Bellegarde is rubbing shoulders with Kevin De Bruyne this term, as the 26-year-old has flexed his chance creation by firing ammunition into Jorgen Strand Larsen.
He’s truly come into his own under Pereira, and Wolves have arguably played better with Bellegarde in the starting lineup instead of the ‘quality’ Cunha, explaining why he must be given the nod ahead of the Brazilian.
Bellegarde’s 2024/25 stats
Pereira is a huge fan of Bellegarde, and it’s been remarkable to watch him finally fulfil his potential in a Wolves shirt.
Unlikely Cunha, the former Strasbourg man puts in an incredible amount of effort on the pitch, pressing the opposition ferociously and winning the ball back.
Bellegarde, who has been dubbed ‘amazing’ this term, has also produced metrics which suggest Wolves shouldn’t miss Cunha as much as first thought.
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s 2024/25 stats
- 2 goals
- 6 assists
- 7 big chances created
- 84% pass completion
- 1.8 balls recovered per game
- 49% ground duels won (2.8)
Of course, he isn’t on the same level as his teammate in terms of output, but his all-round game both on and off the ball make him a joy to watch.