ZIMSPHERE
Zimbabwean star Marshall Munetsi has officially joined English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers on a three-and-a-half-year deal, securing a £16 million transfer from French Ligue 1 club Stade Reims. The deal not only makes Munetsi the most expensive Zimbabwean player in history but also marks a significant step in the 28-year-old’s career.
Munetsi’s performances in Ligue 1 turned heads across Europe, with his 2024/25 season showcasing his exceptional abilities. In just 19 appearances for Reims this season, the midfielder scored four goals and registered two assists, underlining his value as a reliable and versatile player.
Since joining Reims in 2019 from South African giants Orlando Pirates, Munetsi made over 150 appearances across all competitions, earning widespread praise for his work ethic, defensive solidity, and versatility on the pitch.
Munetsi’s leadership qualities were also on display when he was named vice-captain of Reims at the start of the 2024/25 season, a testament to his growing influence both on and off the field. His consistent performances made him a sought-after player, with several clubs reportedly monitoring his progress before Wolves successfully secured his signature.
The Zimbabwean joins Wolves as their second signing on transfer deadline day, following the arrival of Burkina Faso international Nasser Djiga.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Munetsi expressed his excitement about joining Wolves and fulfilling a lifelong ambition.
“I’m delighted. It’s a dream come true for me. I’ve always wanted to be part of something big, and being part of Wolves is something that is very big for me, and is big for my family. It’s a team that I’ve also seen from afar, and the Premier League is the best place to be, so I’m delighted to join the family, to join the team,” he said.
Munetsi further highlighted the significance of playing in the Premier League, describing the opportunity as a major milestone in his career.
“I’m very excited. It’s probably going to be the first time I’ve had a big opportunity to be representing a bigger club. Nothing against Reims, but now you’re going to be playing in the Premier League, playing for Wolves. Also, we have a greater population in England for Zimbabweans, I think I will feel even more at home than what I was doing in France.”
The Zimbabwean international also shared how warmly he was welcomed by his new teammates, including Tawanda Chirewa, a fellow Zimbabwean and Wolves player (who has been loaned to Huddersfield), as well as Emmanuel Agbadou, his former teammate at Reims.
“Obviously, Tawanda (Chirewa) messaged me as soon as he saw the news. He was so excited, so at least now he’s going to have his big brother there. So, it was very good. With Agba, he did the same, because when he first came here, I was the one to welcome him. So, I think now it’s going to be his turn to welcome me,” Munetsi said.
The midfielder also praised Agbadou’s contributions to Wolves and expressed his eagerness to reunite with his close friend.
“As Wolves have seen so far, what he provides for the team, the impact that he has, the energy, the strength, the physique, it’s something that you need in every top team. So, besides that, also he’s a very good friend of mine. We’ve been very good friends for the past three years. So, I’m also looking forward to that.”
Munetsi’s arrival at Wolverhampton Wanderers signifies a major milestone in the player’s career and a promising addition to Wolves’ squad. With his proven track record, leadership qualities, and determination, fans will be eager to see how the Zimbabwean international adapts to the hectic demands of the Premier League.
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