Cesar Peixoto has made a strong impression since taking charge at Molineux this summer. The Portuguese coach, who guided Gil Vicente to sixth place in the Primeira Liga last term, has steered Wolves to 14 points from seven Championship games. They sit fourth in the table, three points off the top, with a game in hand.
The 46-year-old has lost just once in those opening fixtures and remains unbeaten on home soil. A victory over fierce rivals West Bromwich Albion added extra gloss to the start. Yet Peixoto knows the real test lies ahead.
Speaking to local reporters this week, he stressed his readiness for the inevitable setbacks that come with a 46-game campaign. “I’m ready for the difficulties that are going to happen during the Championship,” he said. Peixoto highlighted the need for a full squad once the international break ends, with five or six matches arriving in quick succession.
Squad depth under scrutiny
Wolves have already shown resilience without key players. Raul Jimenez has returned from Fulham but missed recent action through injury. The forward’s experience from previous promotion pushes with the club in 2018 will prove valuable when available.
Peixoto has also integrated new faces while managing the expectations of a fanbase that suffered relegation from the Premier League in April. The club finished bottom that season after a dismal run under previous management. Immediate promotion is the clear target, matching the points total from the successful 2017-18 campaign at this stage.
The head coach has spent time analysing the division’s demands. He understands that consistency across the long haul, rather than early momentum alone, will decide who reaches the Premier League. Five or six games in a row without a full squad could test that preparation.
Supporters will watch closely how Peixoto rotates and adapts during the congested period after the break. The early signs suggest a side capable of grinding out results, but maintaining form through injuries and fixture pile-ups remains the bigger challenge.
Wolves’ position offers encouragement, yet history shows promotion from the Championship rarely follows a straight line. Peixoto’s comments reflect a pragmatic approach that aligns with the realities of second-tier football. His emphasis on fighting until the end will resonate with those who have followed the club’s recent ups and downs.