Rob Edwards has agreed to a three-and-a-half-year deal to become the next head coach of Wolves, returning to the club where he enjoyed both a successful playing and coaching career. The 42-year-old was granted permission to speak with Wolves on Saturday after being stood down as Middlesbrough manager, a role he had only taken up in June. Middlesbrough stand to receive compensation in the region of £3m–£4m.
Edwards’ discussions with Wolves followed his absence from Middlesbrough’s Championship clash against Birmingham and subsequent withdrawal from training and the pre-match press conference. Initially, Boro had rejected Wolves’ approach, but ultimately allowed Edwards to explore the opportunity, given his long-standing connection to Molineux. A formal announcement from Wolves is expected within 24–48 hours.
The former Luton Town boss takes over a team struggling at the foot of the Premier League, with just two points from 11 games. Edwards is well acquainted with the Wolves environment, having made over 100 appearances for the club as a player between 2004 and 2008. He began his coaching journey at Molineux, joining the U18 staff in 2014 before progressing to first-team coaching duties in 2015. In 2019, he became head coach of the U23s and later moved on to Forest Green Rovers in 2021.
Former Wolves manager Gary O’Neil, who considered a return to the club himself, believes Edwards faces a major task in reshaping the squad. Speaking to Sky Sports, O’Neil noted the team is in transition, having lost key players in recent transfer windows, and will require a significant reset to compete in the Premier League.
While Edwards is leaving a Middlesbrough side well-placed for promotion in the Championship, his deep roots at Wolves and familiarity with the club make the move understandable.
Beyond his playing career, he gained coaching experience under Kenny Jackett, Walter Zenga, and Paul Lambert, even stepping in as interim manager for two games in 2006. With family in the Midlands and strong ties to the region, the move marks a homecoming of sorts for Edwards.
Despite the club’s current struggles, Edwards inherits a squad of international talent.
The challenge will be to instil confidence, organisation, and consistency, giving Wolves a fighting chance to survive in the Premier League this season. For Edwards, it is both a professional opportunity and a personal return to the club that helped shape his career.
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