Rob Edwards has been dismissed as Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach after just seven months in charge, with reports suggesting the former manager first became aware of his uncertain future through social media speculation.
The decision comes despite previous assurances from the club that Edwards retained their backing following Wolves’ relegation from the Premier League. However, reports linking Portuguese coach Cesar Peixoto with the managerial position began circulating online on Wednesday, prompting concern within Edwards’ camp.
According to reports, Edwards and his coaching staff only received confirmation from the club after seeking clarification regarding the rumours. Wolves informed the 43-year-old of his dismissal on Thursday morning, bringing a brief and turbulent spell at Molineux to an abrupt end.
Peixoto, who recently guided Portuguese side Gil Vicente to a sixth-place finish in the Primeira Liga, is expected to be named as Wolves’ new manager. Edwards’ assistants Harry Watling and Paul Trollope will also leave the club.
In a statement announcing the decision, Wolves said a “comprehensive review” had led the club to conclude that a change in leadership was necessary as they prepare for life in the Championship.
The club acknowledged the challenges Edwards faced during his tenure and praised the professionalism of him and his staff, but insisted a different sporting direction offered the strongest platform for future success.
The move has surprised many observers given Wolves had already begun planning for next season with Edwards heavily involved. The club recently secured the signing of veteran defender Kieran Trippier on a free transfer from Newcastle United, while striker Raúl Jiménez was set to return following the expiration of his contract with Fulham.
Just weeks ago, technical director Matt Jackson publicly reiterated the club’s support for Edwards, stressing the importance of alignment within the hierarchy as Wolves targeted an immediate return to the Premier League.
Edwards replaced Vítor Pereira in November after leaving a promotion-chasing role at Middlesbrough. However, results failed to improve significantly, with Wolves winning only five of his 30 matches in all competitions and suffering 16 defeats as they finished bottom of the Premier League table.
