Watch: Gary O’Neil Masterclass | Premier League Tactics

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Gary O’Neil reveals the tactical shifts that powered Wolves to a landmark win at Stamford Bridge, detailing how his side outmanoeuvred a high-flying Chelsea through strategic use of Neto, sharper pressing, and maximising Cunha’s impact.

Following an impressive start to his managerial career with Bournemouth, Gary O’Neil was appointed Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach just days before the 2023/24 Premier League season kicked off. Despite the club selling over £100 million worth of talent, he quickly set about moulding the team to fit his philosophy.

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Wolves made an early statement by defeating defending champions Manchester City and built momentum over the festive period with three straight wins — overcoming Chelsea 2-1 at home, dismantling Brentford 4-1, and beating Everton 3-0. By the time they travelled to Stamford Bridge in February, O’Neil had guided the team to a secure mid-table position, just behind Mauricio Pochettino’s Chelsea.

There, Wolves stunned a high-spending, in-form Chelsea side — one that would lose only twice in their remaining 16 league matches, with one of those defeats a resounding home loss to O’Neil’s team.

In the Coaches’ Voice Masterclass, O’Neil dissects the tactical framework behind that landmark win. He explains how strategic flexibility with Pedro Neto, increased defensive aggression, and a tailored plan for Matheus Cunha formed the core of Wolves’ success.

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Photo: Naomi Baker/Getty Images

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