Wolverhampton Wanderers are preparing to hand the reins to Portuguese coach César Peixoto after deciding to part ways with Rob Edwards. The move brings an abrupt end to Edwards’ seven-month spell in charge, with the club opting for a fresh approach ahead of the new campaign.

Peixoto, 46, arrives with experience from Portugal’s domestic game and most recently led Gil Vicente to a sixth-place finish in the Primeira Liga. Wolves are now expected to confirm him as their new head coach in the coming days.

Edwards Caught Off Guard

The decision came unexpectedly for Edwards, who reportedly first became aware of developments through speculation circulating online regarding Peixoto’s potential arrival.

While away on holiday, the former Wolves boss received a phone call informing him that his time at Molineux had come to an end. The timing of the decision surprised not only Edwards but also a number of senior figures within the club.

His departure was particularly striking given the extent of his involvement in preparations for next season. Edwards had remained heavily engaged in recruitment plans and broader strategic discussions concerning the club’s future.

Deeply Involved in Summer Planning

Only days before his dismissal, Edwards featured in promotional content surrounding Raúl Jiménez’s return to Wolves. He also played a significant role in securing the arrival of former England international Kieran Trippier.

Working closely alongside technical director Matt Jackson, Edwards had been shaping recruitment targets for the summer transfer window. He had additionally taken part in a recent supporters’ forum, where he addressed the challenges facing the club after relegation and emphasized the need for substantial cultural change.

Speaking last month, Edwards highlighted his belief in the long-term vision presented to him when he accepted the role.

He acknowledged the reality that football management is ultimately judged by results but reiterated his commitment to the project. Referring to his departure from Middlesbrough in November, Edwards explained that his desire to join Wolves extended beyond the club’s league position and reflected his faith in its potential.

He also expressed optimism that successful transfer business during the summer could help reshape perceptions around the club and create a more positive environment moving forward.

Peixoto’s Connection Through Gestifute

Peixoto’s coaching career has been spent entirely in Portugal. He is represented by Gestifute, the influential agency led by Jorge Mendes.

That relationship is noteworthy because Gestifute has maintained strong ties with Wolves’ ownership group, Fosun, for many years. Since acquiring the club in 2016, Fosun have frequently turned to coaches linked with the agency.

Previous Wolves managers including Vítor Pereira, Bruno Lage and Nuno Espírito Santo all arrived with connections to Mendes and Gestifute.

The partnership has also helped facilitate several high-profile player transfers over the years. Notable examples include the signings of Pedro Neto and Rúben Neves, both of whom became key figures during their time at Molineux.

Club Explains the Decision

Executive chairman Nathan Shi admitted that dismissing Edwards was far from straightforward. Wolves had invested heavily in securing his services, paying £4 million in compensation to bring him from Middlesbrough.

Shi stressed that the decision was not a reflection of Edwards’ professionalism, commitment or personal qualities. Instead, the club felt a different footballing direction would provide the strongest platform for future progress.

According to the chairman, Wolves recognized encouraging developments under Edwards but ultimately concluded that a change was necessary to better match the style of play, identity and competitive standards they aim to establish.

Shi added that maintaining the status quo would have been the simpler option. However, he argued that leadership sometimes requires difficult choices and that the club believes this change offers the best opportunity to build a stronger future following relegation.

New Era Approaching at Molineux

With Peixoto poised to take charge, Wolves are entering another significant transition period. After a disappointing relegation campaign and extensive discussions about rebuilding the club’s culture, the hierarchy has chosen to move in a different direction despite Edwards’ involvement in long-term planning.

The appointment of the Portuguese coach continues a familiar pattern under Fosun’s ownership and signals the start of a new chapter as Wolves attempt to regain momentum and chart a path back toward success.