Wolves manager fires warning at Arokodare, others despite Everton heroics

Wolves finally found relief in the EFL Cup after a 2-0 victory over Everton, but manager Vítor Pereira has made it clear that cup joy cannot mask their dreadful Premier League start.

Despite a spirited performance that included Tolu Arokodare’s first goal for the club, the Portuguese coach insists the time for excuses is over.

Molineux had endured weeks of gloom after five consecutive league defeats, including a frustrating 3-2 loss to Everton in the league.

But in the cup, Wolves showed character. Midfielder Marshall Munetsi broke the deadlock in the first half, reacting sharply to convert after Mark Travers spilled Jhon Arias’ volley.

Everton responded strongly, with Sam Johnstone tipping Michael Keane’s header wide and James Garner rattling the crossbar from a free-kick.

Yet Wolves held firm, and with just minutes remaining, Arokodare calmly chipped in his maiden strike for the club. The £23m summer signing’s goal lifted the home crowd, offering a glimpse of what he can bring to Pereira’s struggling side.

Despite the cup triumph, Pereira used his post-match comments to challenge his squad, especially new arrivals like Arokodare, to deliver in the Premier League.

“Now for the players, the new players, the time for adaptation has finished. This is time to perform and time to help the team,” he stressed.

While praising their hard work in training, Pereira admitted that only results can restore confidence, adding, “With two or three good results we can play at another level, for sure.”

The Wolves boss was pleased to see his players and supporters smiling again, but his warning was clear: the honeymoon period is over, and Premier League survival requires urgent performances.