The Chaotic Timeline: From Rejection to Reluctant Release
Thursday, November 6: Wolves make formal approach for Edwards – rejected outright by Middlesbrough, who insist on honoring his contract until 2028.
Friday, November 7: Edwards skips training; pre-match press conference cancelled. Behind-the-scenes talks intensify with Boro owner Steve Gibson.
Saturday, November 8: Two hours before kick-off vs Birmingham, Middlesbrough announce Edwards is stood down. Assistants Adi Viveash and Harry Watling take charge.
Afternoon statement: Boro confirm permission granted “subject to completion of agreement,” expressing disappointment that Edwards wants to leave after just five months.
Boro win 2-1 anyway – Dael Fry and Hayden Hackney goals secure three points, lifting them to second in the Championship.
Why Edwards Couldn’t Say No: A Molineux Love Story
Born in nearby Telford with family still local, Edwards’ bond with Wolves runs deep:
- 111 appearances (2004-2008)
- Youth coach from 2014
- Interim boss in 2016 (three games after Walter Zenga’s sacking)
- Mentored stars like Max Kilman and Morgan Gibbs-White
Sources describe the job as “impossible to turn down” – a Premier League return at his boyhood club, despite the relegation battle.
Former striker Dion Dublin on BBC Radio 5 Live: “That pull for Rob is just too much. He’s backing himself.”
Wolves’ Desperation: Pereira Out After Historic Low
Vítor Pereira sacked November 2 – just 45 days after a new three-year deal. Worst ever Premier League start: 0 wins, 2 points from 10 games.
Gary O’Neil verbally agreed return but withdrew Monday amid fan backlash.
Edwards emerged as priority – proven promotion winner with Luton (2022-23 play-offs) and current Boro success (third in Championship, one point off automatics).
Boro’s Bitter Farewell: Fans Fury, But Life Goes On
Riverside banners: “Fans deserve people who really want to be here.”
Chants unprintable. Yet Viveash’s makeshift team delivered – business as usual.
Gibson accused Wolves of “illegal approach” and breaching Premier League rules, demanding full compensation.
Potential replacements: Carlos Corberán (West Brom), Brendan Rodgers, Marco Rose.
What Edwards Brings: Promotion Pedigree Meets Relegation Fight
| Achievement | Club | Season |
|---|---|---|
| League Two title | Forest Green Rovers | 2021-22 |
| Championship play-offs | Luton Town | 2022-23 |
| Premier League survival push | Luton Town | 2023-24 |
| Championship top-three | Middlesbrough | 2025-26 |
Tactical flexibility (3-4-3 or 4-2-3-1), man-management maestro, develops young talent.
Wolves need 30+ points from 27 games – Edwards saved Luton from worse positions.
The Verdict: High-Risk Homecoming
For Wolves: Emotional appointment with upside – Edwards knows the club inside out.
For Edwards: Gamble leaving promotion charge for relegation scrap, but Premier League dream realized.
For Boro: Disruption mid-season, but £5m+ windfall and unity shown in victory.
Jeff Shi’s Fosun era hits rock bottom – Edwards is the lifeline.
Announcement expected early international break. Molineux awaits its prodigal son.
