Wolves fight to save Category One status ahead of new season

However, concerns were raised about aspects of their Academy facilities during the latest audit process. These related to infrastructure, including classrooms, changing rooms and pitches, and Wolves began plans in January 2026 for a £10m improvement to their Academy base at Compton Park.

Planning permission has already been submitted for that and the expectation is that the project would be completed by the summer of 2027. When concerns were raised in the audit, the club also committed to £700,000 of immediate expenditure to put up temporary buildings to meet regulations on dressing room and classroom space for the upcoming season.

A Wolves spokesperson told TGG: “Wolves can confirm the club remains in ongoing dialogue with the Professional Game Academy Audit Company regarding the categorisation of the club’s Academy.

“Constructive discussions continue and a final determination is expected next week. The club has made a significant commitment to improving its Academy facilities and remains confident in both the progress already made and the plans in place to complete the remaining works.

“As discussions remain ongoing, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this stage.”

Wolves are concerned that demotion could cause significant disruption to players, families and staff, with the start of the season only a few weeks away. Recruitment and retention for the new season has already been completed, and Wolves believe young players have been placed in a difficult position.

If the club is demoted, it will have the opportunity to appeal the decision to the Professional Game Board. Bournemouth appealed refusal of their Cat 1 application at the end of last season and were subsequently promoted.