‘My way’ - Julen Lopetegui has already decided on first task as new Wolves manager

Julen Lopetegui has already revealed what he believes is the ‘first task’ he needs to undertake as Wolverhampton Wanderers manager. The Spaniard, who takes over at Molineux from Monday, November 14, has quite the challenge on his hands with Wolves currently rock bottom of the Premier League heading into the World Cup break.

It’s a good job Lopetegui is rather used to competing under immense pressure at the highest level, having managed the likes of Real Madrid, Spain and Sevilla in the past. It will of course take time to turn things around, but as is the blessing of the six-week period the World Cup is underway in Qatar.

Wolves don’t play a competitive match again until Boxing Day when they face Everton at Goodison Park. Lopetegui will be able to implement his own playing style at the club and help players adjust to new demands. The 56-year-old has outlined getting to know his new team members as the initial step, with plenty of others to follow.

“I need to know more about the players - I think that is the first task we have,” Lopetegui told Sky Sports. “When we know more about them we can choose the right way to play. I want to translate my personality, my idea and my way to play football. But the main actors are on the pitch; we can only help them.”

Lopetegui has never managed in England before but he is very excited to get going and believes the Premier League is the best on the planet. “I think we are in the main league in the world,” Lopetegui continued. “Things are very different to what we have in Spain. This country has its characteristics and differences and I think this is part of the culture of the Premier League - it is the copyright of the Premier League and I want to enjoy that.”

With just two wins in 15 matches this season and four points deep in the bottom three, Wolves are in a dire position - and Lopetegui is fully aware of that. He continued: “I want to be here and I am very happy. We are here and we have to think what we have, to adapt and know more. I enjoy the work but I enjoy it more when we win and we need to win. That is the most important thing right now.”