Wolverhampton Wanderers have parted ways with head coach Rob Edwards after just seven months in charge, in a decision that has surprised staff and raised questions about the club’s long-term direction.
Edwards reportedly first became aware that his position was under threat after social media reports linked Portuguese coach César Peixoto with the managerial role, before the club later confirmed the decision on Thursday morning.
The club had previously expressed public backing for the 43-year-old following their relegation from the Premier League, but announced a change in leadership after what it described as a “comprehensive review” of the season.
In a statement, Wolves said the decision was made as part of a shift in sporting direction ahead of a rebuilding phase, adding that a “different sporting direction would provide the strongest platform for future success.”
The club also acknowledged the difficulties faced during Edwards’ tenure and thanked him and his backroom staff for their professionalism.
Edwards’ assistants Harry Watling and Paul Trollope have also left the club.
The development comes despite Wolves already beginning preparations for life in the Championship, including squad restructuring and several transfer moves that were reportedly influenced by Edwards, such as the arrival of Kieran Trippier and the return of Raúl Jiménez.
However, results under Edwards proved difficult, with Wolves winning only five of their 30 matches in all competitions and finishing bottom of the Premier League.
Edwards, who previously managed Forest Green Rovers, Watford and Luton Town, had openly acknowledged the scale of the challenge facing the club, describing Wolves as needing significant structural change during a recent BBC Radio WM event.
Behind the scenes, reports suggest the decision to dismiss him was taken at ownership level, with executive leadership and Fosun reportedly unconvinced despite earlier public backing from the club’s technical department.
The move is expected to pave the way for César Peixoto, currently in charge of Gil Vicente in Portugal, who is now strongly linked with the vacant position at Molineux.
Peixoto guided Gil Vicente to a sixth-place finish in the Primeira Liga and is expected to bring a new tactical direction if appointed.
Edwards’ departure also means Wolves will now incur further restructuring costs, having already invested significantly in bringing him and his staff from Middlesbrough earlier in the season.
The sudden change leaves Wolves facing another period of transition as they attempt to rebuild for an immediate return to the Premier League under new leadership.
