adminJean-Ricner Bellegarde Stakes His Claim for Bigger Role at Wolves in 2025/26
Jean-Ricner Bellegarde is enjoying a strong 2025 and looks set to play an increasingly important role for Wolves next season.
The French midfielder has been at Molineux for two years, having arrived in 2023 as the direct replacement for Matheus Nunes. While he impressed on his debut against Liverpool, Bellegarde found consistency hard to come by in his first season. Injuries and the challenge of adapting to Premier League football meant he struggled to build momentum.
However, things began to click for him in the second half of the 2024/25 season under new boss Vitor Pereira. With a regular run of games, Bellegarde flourished in more advanced roles — both centrally and as a number 10 — showcasing his creativity and energy.
He appears eager to build on that progress in the 2025/26 campaign and recently hinted at wanting more consistent involvement. Speaking about his role in the team, Bellegarde said:
> “For me, I need to play, but if the coach tells me he needs me to play this position, then that’s what I’ll do and that’s what I have been doing. I just need to help the team, and for me, when the team is playing very well and can win the games, then I’m happy.
But the gaffer knows I can do more to help the striker, but it depends on the plan of the match. If the gaffer tells me to stay in the middle, then I’ll stay, if I can go and help the striker more, then I’ll go – it all depends on the game.”
Wolves recently added Fer Lopez to their squad, but there’s still a need for options on the left side of attack. Last season, Bellegarde stepped up when Matheus Cunha was unavailable — and he thrived in that more advanced position, possibly hinting at a future in that role.
The departure of Tommy Doyle on loan to Birmingham could open up opportunities for Bellegarde in central midfield, though competition from Joao Gomes and Andre may limit his chances there.
Still, after a strong finish to the 2024/25 campaign, Bellegarde seems well-positioned to feature more prominently. He made 39 appearances last season, logging 1,869 minutes, scoring twice and providing seven assists. His dynamic style, ball-carrying ability, and creativity have become valuable assets for the team.
With Cunha’s absence leaving a big gap, Pereira could turn to Bellegarde once again. Regardless of his exact position, Wolves fans will be hoping to see the 25-year-old get regular minutes in the upcoming season — and based on his form under Pereira, he’s earned that opportunity.
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