Wolves and Manchester United Locked in Familiar Struggle as Fortunes Diverge
Despite ending the 2024-2025 season level on points, a 1-1 draw between Wolves and Manchester United at the close of 2025 offers little solace to either side, highlighting a season of contrasting trajectories. While the result provides a crucial, albeit small, boost for the struggling Wolves, it underscores the continued inconsistencies plaguing Manchester United.
A Tale of Two Seasons: From Parity to Disparity
Last season saw both clubs finish on 42 points, a testament to their shared struggles. Interestingly, Wolves demonstrated greater attacking prowess, scoring 10 more goals than their counterparts, but ultimately conceded 15 more, resulting in a one-place drop to 16th in the standings. this season, tho, has painted a diffrent picture.Wolves find themselves battling relegation, while Manchester United aim for a Champions League berth, yet the points were shared in a match that epitomized both teams’ current predicaments.
Zirkzee Shines, But tactical Choices Raise questions
joshua zirkzee emerged as a key figure for Wolves, netting his second goal of the campaign. He also played a pivotal role in Ladislav Krejci’s equalizer,before being substituted by manager Ruben Amorim. Amorim’s tactical adjustments, however, failed to secure a winning hand. The bottom-placed side secured only their third point of the season, a result that will likely not prevent relegation, but one that will be celebrated in the dressing room. They’ve shown resilience in recent weeks, coming close to securing draws against Arsenal and Liverpool earlier in December.
Cunha’s Absence haunts Wolves’ Attack
The impact of Matheus Cunha’s departure is keenly felt at Molineux. the Brazilian, responsible for 15 goals last season – including a brace in the reverse fixture – now plies his trade for a reported £65 million fee. Without his firepower, Wolves have struggled to find the net, only reaching double figures in their 18th game at Anfield. Players like erling Haaland and Igor Thiago have individually outscored the entire Wolves squad. Cunha’s subdued performance against his former club, a stark contrast to his fiery displays last term, further highlighted his absence.
December’s Demands and Squad Depth Tested
December’s congested fixture list, compounded by a mid-season international tournament, has stretched both squads thin due to injuries and absences.Despite these challenges, Wolves maintained a degree of solidity, with rokodare’s influence was evident in the build-up to the opening goal, initiating a move with a well-timed tackle on Hwang, leading to Zirkzee’s deflected strike.
Krejci’s Response and Tactical Adjustments
Wolves responded swiftly to falling behind, with Krejci capitalizing on a flick-on from zirkzee to equalize. Amorim’s decision to substitute Zirkzee at halftime, replacing him with academy product Jack Fletcher, was unexpected, but aimed at bolstering the midfield. However, the team continued to struggle with possession and lacked a clear attacking plan.
Missed Opportunities and a Point Earned
Despite a late surge from Manchester United, Wolves remained resolute, repelling numerous set-piece attacks. A late goal from Patrick Dorgu was ruled out for offside, preserving the 1-1 draw. While a 15-point gap separates Wolves from safety, manager Rob Edwards believes the team’s performances demonstrate their potential. For Manchester United, the draw leaves them hoping for a return to form when key players return from injury and international duty.
A trip to a resurgent Leeds united looms, but after one home win in five, a change of scenery might potentially be beneficial. In truth, the situation at Old Trafford coudl scarcely be worse.
