Introduction of Edwards as the New Head Coach
Wolverhampton Wanderers have appointed Rob Edwards as their new manager on a contract lasting three and a half years. This follows the dismissal of Vitor Pereira earlier in November.
Edwards joins Wolves after leaving Championship side Middlesbrough, where he took charge in June. His move from a team near the top of the Championship to a club struggling at the bottom of the Premier League has surprised many. Wolves are winless and several points from safety. The main question now is whether Edwards can guide the team away from relegation.
Edwards’ Background and Connection to Wolves
At 42, Edwards was leading Middlesbrough in a positive direction after taking over in the summer. His strong personal connection to Wolves played a key role in his decision. He made more than 100 appearances for the club between 2004 and 2008. He grew up in Telford and has family in the area. The job at Wolves is widely viewed as his dream opportunity.
Can Edwards Mend the Disconnect Within the Club?
A major challenge for Edwards will be addressing the tension among supporters who are frustrated with the current situation. Moving from a promotion fight to a relegation battle is a big risk, especially during a difficult period at the club.
The Wolves board understands the pressure around the team, and Edwards will work closely with his assistant from Middlesbrough, Harry Watling. There is planning underway to strengthen the coaching team, although no final decisions have been made.
Edwards returns after several years away, which gives him a fresh start compared to other possible candidates who were linked to previous regimes. This reduces the risk of internal division and allows him to build a new approach.
Current Challenges for Wolves
Wolves recently suffered a 3-0 defeat, marking their 11th straight Premier League match without a win this season. This is only the second time in the club’s history that they have failed to win any of their first 11 league games. The last time this happened was in 1983–84, a season that ended in relegation.
No Premier League team has survived the drop after such a start, making Edwards’ task extremely difficult. January signings will play an important role if Wolves are to remain competitive.
Several key players have left the club in recent years, including Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota. Their departures were not fully compensated by effective recruitment. This long-term strategy has created gaps in the squad, and it remains a major issue.
Wolves are also looking to use more homegrown players in future transfer windows. The current squad does not include many homegrown options, and increasing this number has become a priority.
Transfer Needs and Squad Reinforcement
Edwards will need reinforcements, but attracting players will be more difficult if the club stays in the relegation zone. Last winter, the club had to make emergency signings, and the need for a more organised transfer strategy is clear.
Some summer signings have found it hard to adapt to the Premier League. This has added pressure on the team and contributed to recent struggles. With a new manager now in place, Wolves aim to revise their transfer approach and improve squad depth.
However, with five managerial changes in four years, there is concern about long-term stability. Many supporters feel that the club must create a stronger and more consistent structure if it hopes to improve results.
Looking Ahead
Edwards has expressed strong motivation to lead the team and return to a club where he has deep personal ties. He previously helped Wolves win the Premier League 2 title with the Under-23s in 2019, which he described as a memorable moment in his coaching career.
He now prepares for his first match in charge, scheduled against Crystal Palace at Molineux on November 22. It will be an important early test as he begins the task of guiding Wolves toward safety.