EPL: Wolves Secure Premier League Safety with 1-0 Win Over Manchester United

Manchester United's struggles continued as they fell to a 1-0 defeat against Wolves, with Sarabia's free-kick proving the difference.

Pablo Sarabia's 77th-minute free-kick secured a crucial win for Wolves, marking their fifth straight top-flight victory over Manchester United for the first time since 1970. This win also all but guarantees Wolves' safety from relegation.

United's performance was a stark contrast to their thrilling midweek win against Lyon. They have now lost 15 games this season, surpassing last term's total and matching their worst record since the 1989-90 season.

Under Ruben Amorim, United have struggled to pick up points against top teams, with their only wins in the past 10 games coming against Leicester and Ipswich, both of whom are currently in the bottom three. Meanwhile, Wolves have transformed under Vitor Pereira, going from relegation candidates to safe with five games to spare.

Manchester United's season hangs in the balance, with a Europa League win potentially salvaging an otherwise disastrous campaign. Despite some positives from young players like Harry Amass and Tyler Fredricson on his debut, the team's performance against Wolves was largely uninspired.

Aside from Bruno Fernandes, United lack a creative spark, a problem highlighted by their limited shots on target. The team's reliance on Fernandes was evident, and manager Ruben Amorim's decision to bench him for the first hour underscores the importance of the upcoming Europa League semi-final.

Wolves win five consecutive Premier League matches for the first time, they've avoided relegation

They're now level on 38 points with Man Utd#MUNWOL pic.twitter.com/BfxWZxl35H

— Premier League (@premierleague) April 20, 2025

The match lacked the heroics seen against Lyon, with Dan Bentley tipping a Christian Eriksen free-kick over the bar in the first half. Teenage forward Chido Obi replaced Rasmus Hojlund towards the end but failed to make an impact, while Bruno Fernandes missed a good opportunity late on.

Off the pitch, there was a sense of unease as fans continued to express their discontent with the proposed relocation plans to create a new corporate seating area. Supporters, many of whom have held season tickets for decades, raised banners with messages like ”tourists over fans” and criticized owners Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family for letting them down, right in front of the directors' box where key executives were seated.

Wolves' fourth consecutive away league win showcased their defensive solidity and ability to capitalize on opportunities. Manager Vitor Pereira has instilled a cohesive defensive unit, a marked improvement from his predecessor Gary O'Neil's tenure.

Pablo Sarabia's pivotal free-kick, conceded by Christian Eriksen, proved decisive. Sarabia seized the opportunity, scoring three minutes after entering the game and securing Wolves' Premier League safety. The win highlighted Pereira's impact on the team, as they comfortably kept a struggling Manchester United side at bay.