De Zerbi warns Wolves must be beaten as pressure mounts on underperforming squad

Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has issued a stern warning that his side must secure victory against Wolves at Molineux, acknowledging the mounting pressure on his underperforming squad as the Premier League season reaches its critical phase. The Italian coach, speaking ahead of Saturday's crucial fixture, emphasized the need for three points while attempting to manage expectations on his players.

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"I don't want to put pressure on my players," De Zerbi stated in his pre-match press conference. "But we have to win at Wolves. There is no other option if we want to achieve our objectives this season." The Seagulls currently sit eighth in the table, with European qualification hopes fading following a string of disappointing results.

Brighton's recent form has been concerning, with just two wins in their last six Premier League matches. The side has struggled to maintain consistency since the turn of the year, with defensive vulnerabilities and missed chances costing valuable points. De Zerbi acknowledged the squad's frustration while maintaining confidence in their ability to turn results around.

Wolves, meanwhile, face their own crisis, sitting just two points above the relegation zone. Gary O'Neil's men have won only one of their last five home games and will be desperate for points as the threat of relegation looms larger. The fixture carries significant implications for both clubs' season objectives.

The clash represents a pivotal moment in the campaign for both managers. Brighton must find solutions to their scoring woes, having managed just seven goals in their last six league matches. Wolves will look to exploit Brighton's defensive uncertainties while searching for the clinical edge that has eluded them in recent weeks.

De Zerbi concluded: "The players understand the importance of this match. We have prepared well this week and I expect a strong response. The pressure is there, but we must use it as motivation rather than fear."