Bellegarde’s World Cup breakthrough raises big Wolves selection question

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s international switch to Haiti was viewed as a bold, emotionally driven decision at the time, but the Wolves midfielder is now seeing that gamble rewarded in spectacular fashion. Haiti have qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1974, a remarkable achievement given the turmoil affecting the nation, and Bellegarde has been singled out for his “exemplary” attitude throughout the campaign.

Haiti manager Sébastien Migné, speaking in reports this week, revealed how much work went into convincing dual-nationals abroad — including Bellegarde — to commit to the project. The midfielder made the switch from France in September and has already become a reliable fixture, starting and completing 90 minutes in wins over Costa Rica and Nicaragua during the recent international break.

For Wolves fans, the story raises an interesting question: could this international momentum push Bellegarde closer to a starting role under new head coach Rob Edwards?

Migné confirmed he “worked hard” to bring Bellegarde into the setup, praising the midfielder’s professionalism and leadership throughout the qualifiers. Bellegarde has embraced the responsibility, stating he wants to “help my national team make history” — and that journey has now taken Haiti to football’s biggest stage.

Having followed Wolves closely this season, the shift in managerial direction offers Bellegarde a genuine opportunity. Edwards tends to favour midfielders who carry instructions with precision, something Bellegarde has demonstrated with Haiti. His performances suggest a player gaining confidence, and confidence often translates into braver Premier League showings.

There is also the motivational aspect. Players coming off historic international success often experience a short-term performance spike because pressure is replaced by pride and momentum. Bellegarde looks like someone who has rediscovered purpose, and that psychological lift could be valuable to a Wolves side that has lacked midfield dynamism at times. Although some supporters argue he doesn’t offer enough end-product, his ability to progress play through tight phases is underrated.

However, it’s worth questioning how Edwards will balance the midfield. Wolves have several players competing for similar roles, and while Bellegarde’s versatility is an advantage, it also means he risks being the “rotational” option. In our view, he deserves a genuine run of starts — but he must show sharper decision-making in the attacking half to cement that status.

Bellegarde’s work for Haiti shows he thrives with a defined role rather than a fluid one. If Edwards deploys him in a structured right-sided midfield slot — supporting counters and covering full-back advances — Wolves may unlock a more confident version of the player. His engine fits the system, and his ball-winning—even if not elite—helps Wolves defend higher and transition faster.

Wolves return to Premier League action on 22 November 2025 against Crystal Palace, and Edwards is expected to rotate after the international break. Bellegarde’s World Cup momentum may earn him increased involvement, but whether he starts regularly may depend on training intensity this week and how Edwards plans to manage midfield balance.

Wolves fans — has Bellegarde done enough to earn a starting spot under Rob Edwards?