The new head coach has worked with his squad, without those representing their countries at the 2022 World Cup, at Compton Park for the past two weeks, and from Monday will step up the intensity in Spain.
Returning to a training camp familiar with the first-team, Wolves will spend ten days in Marbella, where Raul Jimenez will re-join the group following his return from Qatar.
While in Spain, Lopetegui’s side face two behind closed doors training matches against European opposition – La Liga side Cadiz FC and Serie A club Empoli, as the head coach looks to embed his ideas on the squad.
While the fixtures will be played behind closed doors, both will be available to follow via a live stream on Wolves TV.
On Friday 9th December, at midday, Wolves will lock horns with Empoli, who sit 13th in the Serie A table, having won two of their three fixtures heading into the World Cup break against Sassuolo and Cremonese.
At 11am the following Wednesday 14th December, Cadiz, who currently sit 19th in the La Liga table, are the opponents, before Wolves return to the UK and turn their full attention to Gillingham in the Carabao Cup.
Sporting director Matt Hobbs said: “Taking the staff and players away to a different surrounding will allow Julen to work with the group with no distractions, at a base we know well, having used the facility a number of times in recent years.
“The ten days will give the coaching staff further opportunities to lay out their ideas to the players and the games against European opposition will provide a useful test, as we prepare for the return of the Premier League in the coming weeks.
“While out in Spain, we’re looking forward to welcoming Raul back to the group, giving Julen further opportunities to assess his squad and share his philosophy, tactics and mindset, going into an important period after the World Cup.”
