As the January transfer window approaches its conclusion, the spotlight in the footballing world shifts towards the impending clash between Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa. This local derby comes on the heels of a demanding Champions League fixture for Villa, which took place just three days prior. Historically, teams often find it challenging to regain their rhythm after such high-stakes matches, and this encounter is likely to be no different.
Wolverhampton currently finds itself in a precarious position, entrenched in the relegation zone and yet to secure a point since the start of January. However, the recent appointment of manager Vitor Pereira has instilled a sense of renewed hope among the supporters. Despite suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Arsenal, Wolves have faced a series of formidable opponents this month, including Chelsea, Newcastle, and Nottingham Forest. Many observers believe that a positive result is overdue for the team, particularly given Villa's inconsistent performances following Champions League outings. For Wolves, capitalising on their opportunities will be essential, as football is often characterised by unexpected twists.
Reflecting on their previous match, Wolves managed to secure a vital victory that has kept their survival hopes alive in what is proving to be a fiercely competitive season. Pereira’s tactical adjustments have shown promise, and there is potential for the team to build on their recent performance, although they are likely to encounter significant challenges.
In their last league encounter, Aston Villa emerged victorious against Wolves with a 3-1 win, and they are keen to achieve their first league double over their rivals since the 2003-04 season. Historically, Wolves have enjoyed a strong record at Molineux, winning five of the last seven meetings, with their only defeat in that period occurring in December 2020.
Wolves began their campaign under Pereira positively, amassing seven points from their first three league fixtures. However, they now face the prospect of a fifth consecutive loss, a scenario they have already encountered this season. They hold the unfortunate distinction of conceding the most goals from set pieces in the league, with 19, excluding penalties. Additionally, Wolves have allowed 28 goals in the second halves of matches this season, averaging 2.26 goals conceded per league game, marking their worst defensive record since the 1932-33 season. Their tally of 303 fouls ranks second in the league, just behind Bournemouth’s 309.
Conversely, Aston Villa has struggled to find their form, remaining winless in their last six league matches following Champions League outings, with three draws at home and three defeats away. Their only victory in the last seven away games came against Everton on 15 January, and they have managed just one clean sheet in their last 13 matches. Under the management of Unai Emery, Villa has maintained an impressive record against teams in the relegation zone, securing 13 wins and five draws.
Despite their successes, Villa has dropped points in five of their last nine matches where they led at half-time, highlighting a vulnerability in maintaining leads. They have also conceded 11 goals after the 75th minute this season, the second-highest total in the league. Notably, Villa, Nottingham Forest, and Liverpool are tied for the most headed goals in the Premier League this season, each having scored eight prior to the weekend fixtures. However, Ollie Watkins has faced criticism for missing a league-high 19 of his 28 big chances this season, underscoring the need for improvement in front of goal.
As reported by The Villa Blog, the upcoming match promises to be a captivating encounter, and fans will be eager to see how both teams adapt to the circumstances. With crucial points at stake in this derby showdown, the focus remains firmly on the pitch as Wolverhampton and Aston Villa prepare to battle it out. Further updates on the match's outcome will follow, but anticipation is already building for what promises to be an enthralling contest.