Wolverhampton Wanderers have officially appointed Rob Edwards as their new manager, following a contentious transfer from Championship side Middlesbrough. Edwards, 42, has left the Riverside Stadium less than six months after taking the helm, a decision that has incensed the North East club.

Middlesbrough had cancelled Edwards' pre-match press conference ahead of their recent victory over Birmingham City, as discussions regarding his departure intensified. The club expressed their anger over Wolves' approach, accusing them of breaching Premier League regulations. An initial request to speak with Edwards was rejected by Middlesbrough on Thursday, but he subsequently indicated his desire to leave. A compensation deal, reportedly around £3 million, was finalised over the weekend.

Edwards has signed a three-and-a-half-year contract to return to Molineux, where he previously played for four seasons and held various coaching roles. Despite facing criticism for his decision to return, sources suggest that Edwards was motivated not only by the opportunity to manage a Premier League club but also by the chance to live closer to his family in the West Midlands.

Wolves chairman Jeff Shi expressed confidence in Edwards, stating, "I know Rob very well and I have seen his growth in different jobs. He’s a very good person, he knows the club very well, he knows the city, the fans and he is very talented." Shi highlighted Edwards' tactical awareness and leadership skills, emphasising the need for a fresh coaching philosophy at the club.

Joining Edwards at Wolves is Harry Watling, who will serve as assistant head coach. Watling, a former Wales international defender, has a history with the club, having joined in 2004 and later serving as caretaker manager in 2016. He has also managed in non-league football and the lower leagues, including a successful stint with Luton Town, where he achieved promotion to the Premier League.

Edwards takes over from Vitor Pereira, who was dismissed after a disappointing start to the season, leaving Wolves with just two points from their first ten Premier League matches and an eight-point gap from safety. The club is now looking to turn their fortunes around under Edwards' leadership.