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

Roberto De Zerbi has delivered a blunt message to his Brighton squad, warning that failure to beat Wolves this weekend would expose serious flaws in their push for European football. The Italian manager, known for his attacking philosophy, has grown increasingly frustrated with inconsistent displays that have cost the Seagulls valuable points in recent weeks.

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Speaking at his pre-match press conference, De Zerbi was unusually forthright: "I don't want to put pressure on my players, but we have to win at Wolves. There is no other option. If we want to be considered a top team, we must beat teams like Wolves. The performance against Arsenal showed what we are capable of, but consistency is what separates good teams from great ones."

Brighton currently sit seventh in the Premier League table, but a run of just two wins in their last five matches has allowed teams below them to close the gap. European qualification remains in their own hands, though De Zerbi knows the margin for error is now extremely slim.

The Brighton boss must decide whether to recall Danny Welbeck after the England international returned from injury, while João Pedro is available following suspension. The midfield battle will be crucial, with Billy Gilmour set to face his former club after his impressive displays this season.

Wolves, under new management pressure of their own, represent a wounded animal according to De Zerbi. "They will fight, they will be desperate. We must be ready for that intensity. My players understand what is required. We have worked all week on our patterns and I expect a response."

The match at Molineux carries extra significance as both managers face uncertain futures, with speculation mounting about potential changes at both clubs during the summer transfer window.