Gary O’Neil has had time during the summer to thoroughly evaluate his team in preparation for the 2024–2025 season.
O’Neil was unable to gel with his team away from competitive activity last summer due to the manager’s delayed arrival, therefore the boss valued this respite much.
Before the start of the new season, Wolves would have been informed of certain issues that needed to be fixed, but not all members of the team require significant attention.
Mario Lemina is one player whose place in the team is certain because he was named club captain this summer.
Last season, the 30-year-old proved just how important he is to O’Neil’s ambition by leading midfield and serving as an example that his teammates can always rely on.
As the Gabon international approaches the last year of his Molineux contract, there is one concern for 2024–2025.
In interviews with Express and Star, O’Neil acknowledged that he is certain Lemina will agree to a new contract with Wolves.
“The club will be considering a variety of options like that; Mario is significant to us, and the option allows the club to extend, which I’m sure we will do. I don’t see any issues with it.
“Mario is content; we’re pleased with him, and he’s loving his new role.
“I don’t think Mario’s contract will expire at the end of the season; I think there will be arrangements made to ensure he stays on.”
Thankfully, the club has the option to extend Lemina’s current deal by one year, so keeping him after next summer shouldn’t be too difficult.