(Credit: Imago)

Jack Dawson

Sat 14 March 2026 9:15, UK

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Rob Edwards’ refusal to rest Mateus Mane will inevitably cost Wolverhampton Wanderers in the long run.

The talented winger has made his breakthrough into the first team this season and has immediately become a star.

In what has been a terrible campaign, the 18-year-old has been a sole bright spark, offering hope for the future.

However, while Mane has continued to impress for Wolves, his performances have noticeably declined, with Edwards refusing to bench the wonderkid.

Mateus Mane (H) vs West Ham pic.twitter.com/KxUHWRRYFG

— Khan (@khanmufc_) February 17, 2026

Rob Edwards defends Mateus Mane selection call

Going into the Brentford match, Mane has started 13 consecutive Premier League matches.

This could become 14 on Monday if Edwards opts to start the attacker once more.

This has drawn plenty of criticism from the Molineux faithful in recent weeks, with the youngster looking worn out and his performances dipping.

Yet, when speaking to the Express and Star on 13 March before the match, Edwards defended the constant selection of Mane, believing that he is still offering plenty on the pitch.

”He’s made a great impact and a great start to his young career”

Rob Edwards on Mateus Mané’s ceiling with the 18-year-old potentially making his 14th consecutive Premier League start against Brentford 🐺 pic.twitter.com/UTHChN8h32

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) March 12, 2026

This is a baffling verdict, and if the manager keeps this up, he will be destroying Wolves’ promotion hopes for next season.

Mane is clearly going to be a big player if the club can keep hold of him, and could be the difference-maker in the Championship.

It is now evident that the Old Gold side are down and have little to nothing to play for between now and the end of the campaign.

As a result, Mane has to be rested in order to keep him fit and injury-free, ready for the 2026-27 campaign.

If Edwards fails to do this, Wolves’ hopes of an immediate Premier League return may already be dashed.

Can Wolves keep hold of Mane?

Football Insider recently revealed that Liverpool and Manchester United will not pay the £50million asking price for Mane.

Wolves are in a good position to demand a big fee despite their inevitable relegation, with the youngster signing a contract until 2029 in the summer.

However, in the summer transfer window, there are plenty of twists and turns that could affect Mane’s future.

It remains to be seen if Wolves will stick to their asking price, or if a club does offer £50m for the future star.