Emmanuel Agbadou became the first new signing of the Vitor Pereira era on Thursday, bringing him to the Premier League for the first time.
The Ivory Coast international began playing in his home country and moved to Tunisia at 22. Time in the Belgian Pro League followed, before his break in a top European league with Stade de Reims in Ligue 1 of France.
The defender appears ready made for the Premier League, given his attributes, and wolves.co.uk now delves further into the new number 12 in old gold.
Profile
- Name: Emmanuel Elysee Djedje Agbadou Badobre
- Date of birth: 17th June 1997
- Position: Centre-back
- Nationality: Ivory Coast
- Previous club: San Pedro, Monastir, Eupen, Reims
- Appearances: 164
- Goals: 10
- Assists: 6
The recruitment process
Agbadou had been tracked by the Wolves recruitment team since making the move to Belgium, with attention intensifying this season. It’s felt that the award of the captain’s armband at Stade de Reims in the summer led to a more consistent 2024/25 campaign so far in Ligue 1. Vitor Pereira arrived at Molineux aware of the defender from his previous roles, so he featured on both the target list of the recruitment team and Pereira. Discussions were held and it was agreed that his skillset and attributes suited Pereira’s plan for Wolves the best of all the targets.
The style of play
Agbadou is a well-rounded defender who looks to build up play from the back. He’s comfortable on the ball and can play in any of the positions in a back three, on the right, left or centrally – a system Pereira has used consistently during his early weeks as Wolves boss. He boasts a 6 ft 4 frame, so is a dominant figure from set pieces, but also has good pace to provide cover in defensive situations. It is hoped that his confidence on the ball, physical strength and pace will suit the nature of the Premier League. Agbadou’s speed will enable Pereira’s side to be aggressive in their defending, while not being afraid of the space behind.
Taking the 1️⃣2️⃣ pic.twitter.com/4BIPfpeYZF
— Wolves (@Wolves) January 9, 2025
The personality
The defender is described by those who know him as a winner and a driven individual. Agbadou arrived in the game late and only stepped into a traditional top five European division two-and-a-half years ago with Stade de Reims, having previously gained experience in Belgium. His commitment and attitude on the pitch are likely to endear him to those on the Molineux terraces. Off the pitch, Agbadou brings a good personality and speaks English confidently, while also being able to communicate with the French speakers in the Wolves dressing room.
A leader
Agbadou was named in Stade de Reims leadership group in the summer, following two seasons at the club. During the first part of the 2024/25 season the defender wore the armband, so will bring leadership qualities to Molineux, which was an important factor to Pereira.
