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Wolves have taken the football world by surprise by sacking head coach Rob Edwards, only days after the club completed two high-profile signings — Kieran Trippier and Raul Jimenez. The decision comes as the Midlands outfit prepares for life in the Championship following a disappointing campaign that ended their eight-year run in the Premier League.

Edwards’ dismissal comes despite the club’s bold transfer activity aimed at securing a quick return to the top flight. The move has stunned many supporters, as Wolves appeared to be gathering momentum for a promotion challenge. The former Middlesbrough manager had been appointed only in November, but the board decided a change was needed after the team failed to avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The timing of the sacking is particularly noteworthy, given the club’s recent aggressive recruitment drive. Wolves had already confirmed the major signings of experienced full-back Trippier and striker Jimenez, with the latter returning to Molineux for a second spell to lead the attack. Despite these reinforcements, Edwards has been relieved of his duties before the new season begins.

In an official statement issued on Thursday, Wolves said: “Following a thorough review at the end of the season, the club has decided that a change in leadership is required as we move into the next phase of our development.”

The statement added: “The club acknowledges the considerable challenges faced by Rob Edwards and his coaching staff during their tenure, and appreciates their commitment and professionalism throughout. However, it has concluded that a new sporting direction will offer the best foundation for future success.”

Edwards’ time at Molineux was always going to be difficult. Brought in to replace Vitor Pereira late last year, he inherited a struggling side rooted near the bottom of the table. Though there were brief signs of improvement, he was unable to prevent the team’s slide into relegation, confirmed in April. That outcome ended Wolves’ long-standing presence in the Premier League.

The club hierarchy now seems intent on a complete reset to ensure their Championship stay is as brief as possible. Despite Edwards’ long-term contract, the demands of a relegation battle and the need for tactical renewal prompted the board to act swiftly before pre-season preparations began.

With the managerial seat now vacant, Wolves have wasted no time in identifying their next head coach. Reports indicate that the club has once again turned its attention to Portugal — a market that has historically served them well. Talks with Gil Vicente’s manager Cesar Peixoto have progressed rapidly over the past 24 hours, with Portuguese outlet O Jogo among those reporting that a deal is close.

Peixoto has earned significant praise in Portugal for guiding Gil Vicente to an impressive sixth-place finish in the Primeira Liga. His reputation for overachieving with limited resources has made him an appealing candidate for the Wolves board, which is eager to secure an immediate return to the Premier League. The agreement between the two clubs is believed to be close to completion, potentially marking another Portuguese chapter in Wolves’ modern history.

The arrival of a new manager will bring about a tactical transformation as Wolves adjust to the demands of the Championship. With international stars like Trippier and Jimenez already on board, the squad boasts a level of experience rarely seen in the second tier. The new boss will face the task of integrating these big names with the club’s existing core players.

As Wolves gear up for the domestic campaign, attention will turn to further squad strengthening and balancing finances to comply with league regulations. Expectations at Molineux remain sky-high — nothing short of an immediate return to the Premier League will suffice. The decision to replace Edwards with a manager of Peixoto’s calibre highlights the club’s determination to take control of the Championship next season.