Wolves enter the summer transfer window with some difficult decisions to make, none more so than the imminent departure of one long-term player.
It has long been known that Matheus Cunha is set to join Manchester United, confirming that as his preferred destination, with his transfer close to being ‘finalised’.
Cunha has been an excellent player for Wolves over the years, and fans have been mesmerised by his talent. But, after watching him constantly hint at departing, they’ll be glad when a deal is finally wrapped up.
Supporters are more concerned about their captain leaving the club. Nelson Semedo sees his contract expire next month, and there are no signs of him agreeing on fresh terms.
Although Vitor Pereira wants to keep Semedo, his high wages could be the stumbling block to securing his future, leaving the Portuguese boss with a huge decision to make.
Photo by Wolverhampton Wanderers FC/Wolves via Getty Images
Photo by Wolverhampton Wanderers FC/Wolves via Getty Images
Wolves could appoint their sixth different captain in three years
In a recent podcast appearance, Dave Edwards called Semedo ‘excellent’ and suggested giving him a new deal could prove to be the best signing Wolves do this summer.
Semedo was shocked when he was given the captaincy in December after replacing Mario Lemina, but he’s adapted to the role exceptionally well.
Not only does he lead by example on the pitch, but Semedo’s work behind the scenes at Molineux is just as important, with the 31-year-old often responsible for organising team bonding exercises.
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It would be a huge shame if he were to exit this summer, yet it’s an outcome that looks increasingly likely, with Saudi Pro League sides interested in Semedo.
Worryingly, if the former Barcelona star does leave the club, Wolves will need to appoint their sixth different captain in three years.
Wolves last five captains
Conor Coady (2018 – 2022)
Ruben Neves (2022 – 2023)
Max Kilman (2023 – 2024)
Mario Lemina – (2024)
Nelson Semedo – (2024 – Present)
In an ideal world, Semedo commits his future and continues in his role as captain. But with time ticking to resolve his contract saga, Pereira needs to assess his options for the armband, and it’s important he gets it right.
Emmanuel Agbadou should be Wolves next captain
Pereira will want to buck the trend at Wolves of a captain not staying long or being stripped of it completely in Lemina’s case.
Joao Gomes, who signed a new contract in April, is certainly an option to replace Semedo once he leaves the club.
However, despite committing fresh terms, there are no guarantees the Brazilian midfielder is here for the long term, as he’s constantly fielding interest from bigger clubs.
That is why Wolves’ next captain should be Emmanuel Agbadou. The Ivorian centre-back has led by example in the centre of defence since joining and has experience of wearing the armband.
He was the captain of Stade Reims in the first half of the season, and after signing for the Wanderers in January, Agbadou spoke about his leadership qualities.
“I think I can use this leadership for this team, and the coach told me about that also, it’s for that I’m here, so I can help him with my leadership,” he said.
Already a popular member of the dressing room and an integral part of their plans on the pitch long-term, the 27-year-old feels like the natural replacement.