Rob Edwards Returns to Wolves as New Manager Amid Relegation Battle

Rob Edwards, 42, arrives at Wolverhampton Wanderers from Middlesbrough, where he left the Championship club in second place, trailing leaders Coventry City by five points. This new role presents what could be the most challenging phase of his managerial career. After initially resisting Wolves’ approach, Middlesbrough ultimately agreed to a compensation package last week, facilitating Edwards’ return to Molineux.

Edwards, who made 111 appearances for Wolves between 2004 and 2008, views this appointment as a homecoming. He expresses optimism about the challenge ahead, believing that Wolves can avoid relegation with 27 games and 81 points still available. Joining him at Wolves will be Harry Watling, who served as his assistant at Middlesbrough and will continue in that role at Molineux. Edwards is also eager to surround himself with trusted former colleagues.

Wolves executive chairman Jeff Shi commented on Edwards’ appointment: “I know Rob very well and I have seen his growth in different jobs. He’s a very good person who understands the club, the city, and the fans. He is also very talented. During his time as a youth coach here, he demonstrated tactical awareness, and as he took on first-team roles, he developed his own identity, character, and leadership.”

According to The Telegraph, Edwards has expressed interest in having centre-back Conor Coady return in a coaching capacity, alongside former Cardiff City manager Paul Trollope and ex-England international Joleon Lescott. Convincing Coady, who is still an active player for Wrexham with a contract extending to 2027, to transition into a coaching role may prove challenging. Despite making only five league appearances this season, Wrexham’s willingness to release him in January remains uncertain, as does Coady’s desire to join a struggling side.

As Edwards settles into his role, focus will quickly shift to the January transfer window, with the club’s winter recruitment likely to influence their fate come May. Wolves’ owners have committed to providing funds for both permanent and loan signings, though the quality of incoming players will largely depend on whether the club can maintain proximity to safety. Recruitment has come under scrutiny, with only one of six summer signings, Ladislav Krejci, having made a significant impact. Additionally, Wolves are reportedly looking to reduce their dependence on super-agent Jorge Mendes and his Gestifute agency. In this restructuring, Matt Jackson, currently the director of recruitment and player development, is expected to be promoted to sporting director.

Edwards faces a formidable challenge, as Wolves are the only team in the English Football League yet to secure a league victory, having lost nine and drawn two of their eleven matches. He inherits a squad lacking confidence and quality, with his first task being to revitalize a team short on belief. His debut match will be at home against Crystal Palace on November 22, followed by a West Midlands derby against Aston Villa on November 30. Both matches will serve as early tests of Edwards’ credentials in his new role.