(BBC)
(Getty Images)
Wolves’ current situation in the Premier League is worrying to say the least.
The defense was breached a staggering 21 times, one of the worst starts to a season in recent history.
Wolves are bottom of the table with just one point and their dismal performance has left fans and pundits questioning their strategy and future.
Of course, the blame can be placed on Gary O’Neill, Matt Hobbs and the players, but the blame also goes to owner Fosun International.
When Fosun bought Wolves, Chinese President Xi Jinping was encouraging investment in soccer with the aim of turning the country into a sporting powerhouse.
However, the strategy has changed and the focus is now on domestic investment.
Fosun’s decision to make Wolves financially independent appears to have started this difficult phase.
Aiming for self-sufficiency is great, but were the Wolves prepared for such a change?
At the time, the team was very small, Molineux were in need of major improvements, and ventures in esports, music and fashion aimed at increasing the Wolves brand were expected to bring financial benefits to the club. There was a lack of transparency regarding
As a result of restricted investment, Wolves’ transfer strategy has become more frugal, which some argue has led to a decline in the quality of the squad.
Not only do the Wolves rely on emerging young talent, they also acquire players seemingly purely for investment.
Andre was signed from Fluminense for around £21 million. He’s worth every penny, but Wolves already had good depth and quality in midfield. It’s no wonder some fans wonder if his acquisition was motivated by money rather than team needs. Perhaps, in hindsight, investing in a quality centre-back would have been more beneficial.
In years past, sticking to the PSR rule could have slowed Wolves down, but not now. In reality, it is the lack of investment from owners and the pressure on clubs to become self-sufficient that is holding back progress.
With owners cutting off financial support and fans facing high prices for inferior products, it’s no wonder supporters feel like they’re no longer interested in Fosun.
This raises a serious question: Is old gold in a controlled decline?
See more of Dazzling Dave from Always Wolves
(BBC)
