Chirewa Preferred, Munetsi Overlooked as Wolves’ Nightmare Run Continues
Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Zimbabwean duo endured another difficult outing as the club’s winless run extended to 13 matches after a 1–0 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park. For both Tawanda Chirewa and Marshall Munetsi, it was an afternoon that underlined shifting roles within Rob Edwards’ struggling side.
Chirewa came on in the 69th minute with Wolves chasing the game following Boubacar Kamara’s brilliant strike. The young Zimbabwean midfielder, who has increasingly become a preferred option under Edwards, tried to inject urgency and link midfield to attack. However, Villa’s compact shape after taking the lead left him with little space to exploit. Most of his touches were forced into wide or backward areas, restricting his influence and leaving Wolves without the creative spark they desperately needed.
Munetsi, meanwhile, remained on the bench — a noticeable change from earlier in the season, when the Warriors vice-captain was used regularly by former manager Vítor Pereira. Since the managerial change, the experienced midfielder has slipped down the pecking order, with Edwards prioritising mobility and youth in the middle of the park. Chirewa’s increased minutes are evidence of that shift, even if Wolves’ results have not improved.
Wolves had their chances — a header from Yerson Mosquera tipped onto the bar and a disallowed goal for Jorgen Strand Larsen — but once again lacked the final bit of quality in key moments.
For Zimbabwean supporters, the match highlighted contrasting fortunes: Chirewa gaining trust despite the difficult environment, and Munetsi waiting for another opportunity as Wolves continue their desperate search for a first league win.