Welcome to the world of the Wolverhampton Wanderers, a football team that lives and breathes the spirit of the English Premier League (EPL). Here, tradition meets modernity, history rubs shoulders with the present, and football is more than just a game – it’s a way of life.
Howling with the Wolves
The story of the Wolverhampton Wanderers, or Wolves as they’re affectionately known, starts back in 1877. Their formidable journey is punctuated by numerous thrilling games and accolades. One of the founding members of the Football League in 1888, Wolves marked their territory in the English top flight with several league titles and FA Cup victories.
In recent history, Wolves returned to the EPL in 2018, finishing an impressive 7th place in the following two seasons. This high standing secured their participation in the Europa League, a testament to their impressive capabilities.
Wolves in Sheeps’ Clothing
The Molineux turf has been graced by some extraordinary talent over the years. The 1950s saw the legendary Billy Wright lead the Wolves to three First Division titles. A man of immense talent, Wright went on to be the first footballer in the world to earn 100 international caps, with the England team, no less.
In more recent times, the likes of Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota have been fan favorites. While Neves continues to weave his magic in the Wolves’ midfield, Jota moved on to Liverpool where he has become a key player.
Packs and Rivals
While Wolves may be part of a pack, they’re no strangers to rivalry. Local adversaries West Bromwich Albion are their most historic rivals, with their confrontations known as the Black Country Derby. Aston Villa and Birmingham City are other Midlands teams that share a keen competitive edge with Wolves.
Internationally, their 2019-2020 Europa League campaign saw them clash with teams like Torino from Italy’s Serie A and Spain’s Espanyol, matches that showcased the Wolves’ ability to compete on the grand European stage.
The Den: Molineux Stadium
Visiting Molineux Stadium, the Wolves’ home since 1889, is an experience in itself. The Steve Bull Stand, named after the club’s record goal-scorer, is a popular choice among budget-conscious fans, with tickets priced around £35. If you’re a first-timer, the thrill of being among the most vocal supporters will be worth every penny.
For those seeking a more opulent experience, the Billy Wright Stand offers the comfort of padded seating and access to luxurious bars and lounges. Prices here average around £65, giving you a premium view of the pitch where you can witness the Wolves hunt down their rivals.
Run with the Wolves
Experiencing a Wolves game in the EPL is to witness passion and football prowess like no other. The joy of being part of the chanting crowd, the surge of excitement with every goal, and the sense of camaraderie among fellow fans – it’s a feeling that needs to be experienced to be understood. So don’t wait, grab your tickets and join the pack today. There’s nothing quite like running with the Wolves.
The Fun Goes On
- Europa League Record: In their 2019-20 Europa League campaign, Wolves reached the quarter-finals, an impressive feat considering it was their first appearance in European competition for nearly 40 years.
- First British Team to Install Floodlights: Wolves were pioneers in modernizing football in the UK, as they were the first British team to install floodlights in their stadium in 1953. This led to a series of “floodlit friendlies” against top European teams which were highly influential in the creation of the European Cup (now the Champions League).
- The symbolism of the Club Emblem: The Wolves’ emblem, a wolf’s head, reflects the team’s nickname, and also carries historical significance, as the city of Wolverhampton has had the animal in its coat of arms for centuries.
- Wolves’ Role in Formation of UEFA: One of the club’s high-profile friendly matches in the 1950s, against Honved of Hungary, was instrumental in the formation of the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and the European Cup.
- Football League Cup Success: Wolves have won the Football League Cup twice, first in 1974 and then in 1980.
- Record Goalscorer: Wolves’ record goalscorer is Steve Bull, who netted 306 goals in all competitions for the club from 1986 to 1999.
- Charity Work: Wolves are active in the community and support several charities. The Wolves Foundation works on projects related to health, education, inclusion, and sport participation in the local area.
- Famous Fans: Rock legend Robert Plant, former lead vocalist of Led Zeppelin, is one of Wolves’ most famous fans. He even served as the club’s vice president for a period.
