Rob Edwards’ Aspirations for Wolves: A Dream Opportunity

Rob Edwards, the manager of Middlesbrough, has been granted permission to discuss the managerial vacancy at Wolverhampton Wanderers, a position he considers a dream opportunity.

Middlesbrough expressed disappointment over Edwards’ interest, especially given that he joined the club just five months ago. They have reached a compensation agreement with Wolves, pending the necessary paperwork.

In light of Wolves’ interest, Edwards was not present for the team’s match against Birmingham City, leaving first-team coaches Adi Viveash and Harry Watling, along with academy manager Craig Liddle, in charge.

Wolves’ initial approach for Edwards was rejected by Middlesbrough, prompting discussions between Edwards and club officials on Friday. As a result, he did not conduct his usual pre-game press conference or oversee the final training session ahead of the Birmingham game.

Edwards had signed a three-year contract to succeed Michael Carrick at Middlesbrough and had the team positioned third in the Championship as of that weekend.

Sources indicate that while Middlesbrough’s management handled the decisions regarding training and match preparations, they were displeased by Wolves’ approach and Edwards’ willingness to consider the opportunity.

Having made over 100 appearances for Wolves between 2004 and 2008, Edwards views the role as a significant career aspiration. He grew up in Telford and continues to have family ties in the area, although logistical considerations are reportedly not a primary factor in his decision.

Dion Dublin, a former striker for Coventry and Aston Villa, commented that Middlesbrough fans should not be surprised at Edwards’ eagerness to leave soon after joining. He emphasized that such moves are common in football, especially when opportunities align with personal and professional aspirations.

Wolves recently parted ways with manager Vitor Pereira following a winless start to the season, leaving them at the bottom of the Premier League. Edwards has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Pereira, alongside former manager Gary O’Neil, who has since withdrawn from consideration.

After retiring as a player in 2013, Edwards began his coaching career at Wolves, briefly serving as interim manager in 2016. His coaching journey included stints at non-league Telford and England’s Under-16s before he became the head coach of Forest Green Rovers in 2021. He took over at Watford the following year but was dismissed after only 11 matches.

Edwards led Luton Town to the Premier League for the first time in the club’s history and, despite their subsequent relegation in May 2024, he had established a reputation as a capable manager before parting ways with Luton during the 2024-25 season.