Wolves’ search for a new manager has reached Spain. According to Radio Marca and journalist Matteo Moretto, the Premier League club sounded out Iñigo Pérez, the 37-year-old head coach of Rayo Vallecano, as part of their shortlist to replace Vítor Pereira.
Pérez’s rise through the Spanish ranks has been swift. Once an assistant at Rayo, he stepped up after Andoni Iraola departed for AFC Bournemouth in 2023, before returning as full manager in February 2024. Under his leadership, Rayo finished eighth in La Liga, earning a UEFA Conference League qualifying spot — their best top-flight result in two decades.
Sources in Spain say Wolves were joined by Nottingham Forest and AS Monaco in registering interest over recent weeks. While Forest and Monaco have since filled their vacancies, Wolves remain without a permanent successor, with Pérez seen as an ideal long-term fit.
Shared Agent Opens Doors — but Not This Season
Pérez shares representation with Iraola, a connection that Moretto claims could eventually help smooth a move to England. However, Diario de Navarra later reported that the Basque coach “rejected the offers” outright, choosing to honour his commitment to Rayo.
For Wolves, that leaves the door firmly closed — at least for now. The club have been in talks with Middlesbrough manager Rob Edwards, but no agreement has been finalised. Pérez’s decision means any pursuit will likely have to wait until summer 2026.
Our View — Patience Over Panic
In our view, Wolves’ interest in Pérez is both smart and forward-thinking. His tactical discipline, focus on structured pressing, and eye for detail mirror the club’s recent preference for technically astute managers in the Iberian mould. It looks likely that Wolves will continue with an interim coach until the season’s end, revisiting Pérez if they secure Premier League safety. His loyalty to Rayo will only enhance his reputation in the meantime.
Key Insights
- Big takeaway: Wolves contacted Iñigo Pérez, but the Rayo Vallecano coach turned them down.
- Quick stat: Pérez guided Rayo to 8th in La Liga and a Conference League spot in 2024/25.
- Agent link: Shares representation with Andoni Iraola, opening potential future routes to England.
- Current plan: Wolves still negotiating with Rob Edwards as alternative.
- Next step: Pérez remains committed to Rayo until season’s end.
What’s Next
Wolves are expected to decide soon whether to appoint an interim or push harder for Edwards. If survival is secured, Pérez could re-emerge as a summer candidate. For now, the young Spanish tactician remains focused on Rayo’s European push — and Wolves’ managerial search continues.
👉 Wolves fans — would you wait for Iñigo Pérez next summer, or appoint a new boss right now?
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