An “amazing” Wolves player has been chosen by former Manchester City defender Micah Richards to be Gary O’Neil’s 2023–2024 “standout.” In Gary O’Neil’s first season as manager, Wolves finished in 14th position in the Premier League.
The Wanderers were once contending for Europe, so while many predicted a relegation struggle, the Old Gold’s situation could have been far worse.
Overall, under O’Neil, who succeeded Julen Lopetegui in August of last year, the campaign was far better and changed the fortunes of a number of players right away.
Formerly a shadow of his former self, Rayan Ait-Nouri was perhaps their most vital player, Nelson Semedo had his finest year in gold, and Matheus Cunha was a player brimming with confidence.
Micah Richards labels Rayan Ait-Nouri as ‘standout’ Wolves player
Ait-Nouri was a “incredible” talent, as everyone connected to Wolves knew; he simply needed someone to help him reach his full potential.
O’Neil accomplished this feat admirably in the 2023–2024 campaign, as the deft Algerian was a mainstay in the left wing-back position and even thrived in a front three role.
The £10k-per-week wizard showed growth but didn’t always provide the numbers, finishing with three goals and two assists across all competitions.
Micah Richards complimenting the Wolves’ quality, Ait-Nouri is a pleasure to watch when he’s swerving in and out of defenders at a fast tempo and leaving the opponent for dead.
In an interview with the Rest Is Football podcast, Richards praised Ait-Nouri above all others, but he singled out Pablo Sarabia, Matheus Cunha, Mario Lemina, and Joao Gomes.
The former Man City defender stated, “But the standout for me was Ait-Nouri from left-back at times going into midfield as well when needed.”
Even the free role can be unpredictable. They simply have some extremely talented players, and I believe O’Neil has done a great job of guiding them toward an offensive style of play.
Gary O’Neil can use his portfolio to attract more players this summer
O’Neil’s reputation for bringing players from poverty to wealth is truly admirable and creates a plethora of opportunities.
It shows off his superb man-management abilities and gives other players confidence so they can see how much he’s progressed as an individual when Wolves are scouting them in the window.
With players like Cunha, Joao Gomes, Semedo, and Toti Gomes, among others, he has demonstrated his ability to use the tools provided to him and earned the respect he deserves.
A striker seems to be very much on O’Neil’s radar as he plots out the next transfer window.
Che Adams of Southampton has attracted the greatest attention, and Eddie Nketiah of Arsenal may also be pursued by the Wanderers.
These two players are instances of how he could develop them into goal machines if they joined the team, demonstrating his skill at developing underdog players.
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