Wolverhampton Wanderers have sacked manager Rob Edwards after just seven months in charge, with reports suggesting the 43-year-old first learned of his potential dismissal through social media. The club, which had publicly backed Edwards following their relegation from the Premier League, confirmed the decision on Thursday morning after rumors of a replacement surfaced online.
Edwards' assistants Harry Watling and Paul Trollope are also leaving Molineux. Cesar Peixoto, who guided Gil Vicente to sixth place in Portugal's Primeira Liga, is expected to be named as the new head coach.
In a statement, Wolves said: "Following a comprehensive review at the conclusion of the season, the club has determined that a change in leadership is necessary as Wolves enters the next stage of its development." The club acknowledged the "significant challenges faced by Edwards and his staff" but concluded that "a different sporting direction would provide the strongest platform for future success."
Edwards took over from Vitor Pereira and oversaw just five wins in 30 games across all competitions, losing 16. Despite the poor run, technical director Matt Jackson had expressed alignment with Edwards just last month, saying, "If there isn't alignment here, we're dead in the water before we start."
The sacking comes as a surprise, especially as Wolves had already begun planning for life in the Championship, securing Kieran Trippier on a free transfer from Newcastle, with Edwards playing a key role in the deal. Raul Jimenez also returned to the club after his Fulham contract expired.