UPDATE: Premier League club Wolves are reportedly eyeing Cardiff City manager Brian Barry-Murphy as a potential replacement for Rob Edwards, who could be facing the axe in the coming days. This development is crucial as Wolves sit at the bottom of the Premier League, seeking a turnaround amidst a season fraught with challenges.
Just announced, Wolves are contemplating a managerial shake-up as they grapple to avoid breaking the record for the lowest points tally in Premier League history. With their current trajectory, it appears likely that Wolves could find themselves relegated, prompting the search for new leadership in the early stages of 2024.
Barry-Murphy, who has successfully led Cardiff back into contention for promotion from League One, has captured the attention of Wolves after steering his team to the top of the table and advancing to the EFL Cup quarter-finals. His impressive track record, following a four-year tenure with Manchester City’s academy and the Leicester City coaching staff, positions him as a strong candidate for Wolves’ urgent managerial needs.
According to TeamTalk, Wolves could indeed make a move for Barry-Murphy if they decide to part ways with Edwards, who was appointed just months ago. Cardiff City fan pundit Matt Hall voiced skepticism about Barry-Murphy’s potential departure, emphasizing the promising project he is leading at Cardiff.
“I think the clubs are destined to be in the same division next season,” Hall stated. “Without any summer business, I’d fancy us to be above that Wolves team next season.”
As Cardiff solidifies its grip on automatic promotion, Wolves continue to struggle, with fans fearing that their eight-year stay in the Premier League could come to an end. Hall believes that if Barry-Murphy remains at Cardiff, he will soon be managing a more competitive side.
“While Wolves are a big club, Barry-Murphy is focused on developing young talent,” Hall remarked. “He needs a thriving academy and a solid foundation, which is not what Wolves currently offer.”
With standout performances from players under 23 at Cardiff, including Dylan Lawlor and Ronan Kpakio, Barry-Murphy is seen as a manager dedicated to nurturing young stars. Wolves, on the other hand, have prioritized immediate success over long-term player development, which may not align with Barry-Murphy’s vision.
Hall described Cardiff’s situation as the “perfect storm” for Barry-Murphy, noting that the club’s ambition and focus on youth development provide a unique opportunity for growth. He expressed doubts that Barry-Murphy would leave for a club like Wolves unless an equally ambitious project emerged.
“What he has going on here is the perfect storm of a club that is trying to get a new identity,” Hall explained. “It would take a lot for him to leave.”
As Cardiff continues to improve under Barry-Murphy, the potential for both clubs to compete in the Championship next season looms large. Fans in Cardiff hope their manager’s commitment to the project will outweigh the allure of a Premier League job, even one with a struggling side.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on Wolves and their decision-making regarding Edwards, while Cardiff fans will be watching closely to see if their manager stays put to continue the promising work ahead.
