Robbie Keane applies to become Wolves’ next manager
Robbie Keane is seeking to make an emotional return to Wolverhampton Wanderers, this time in the dugout. The former Republic of Ireland captain has reportedly applied to become the club’s next manager following the dismissal of Vitor Pereira on Sunday, reports BritPanorama.
Pereira’s stint was abruptly ended after a disappointing start to the Premier League season. Wolves have yet to secure a victory after ten matches, leaving them at the bottom of the table with merely two points. This poor performance has led to growing frustration among supporters and prompted the club’s board to urgently seek solutions.
At 45, Keane is familiar with Molineux. He began his professional career with Wolves in 1997, netting 27 goals in 85 appearances before moving on to clubs including Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool. His longstanding affinity for the club is well known, and sources indicate that Keane would relished the opportunity to lead Wolves out of their current predicament and restore pride to the team.
However, he is not the only candidate under consideration. Gary O’Neil, who managed Wolves until December last year, is reportedly in discussions about a potential return. Despite his surprising dismissal, O’Neil remains respected within the club’s hierarchy, with conversations said to be “progressing positively.” Another notable name mentioned is Erik ten Hag, who has been without a job since a brief tenure at Bayer Leverkusen earlier this season and is viewed for his tactical expertise.
Wolves are in desperate need of stability, particularly following Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Fulham that exacerbated the crisis. The board is weighing its options carefully and is expected to make a swift appointment as the club strives to secure a new manager before their next league match.
For Keane, this role would mark a significant step forward in a coaching career that has gained momentum in recent years. The opportunity to return to the Midlands, where his professional journey began, seems especially appealing to him.
As Wolverhampton Wanderers face an uphill battle in their upcoming fixtures, the stakes are undeniably high for whichever manager is chosen. With the club’s Premier League status hanging in the balance, the next appointment will be crucial in determining not just the immediate future, but also the long-term trajectory of this storied club.