Michael Beale’s Wolves rejection - where does this leave club ahead of Leicester clash?

Queens Park Rangers manager Michael Beale has rejected the chance to become Wolverhampton Wanderers manager, according to reports. The 42-year-old has instead opted to remain at Loftus Road.

As per The Athletic, Beale was the Old Gold’s ‘first choice’ to replace Lage at Molineux following his sacking earlier this month. However, the Rs’ boss isn’t the only manager to turn down the job in the west Midlands, with Julen Lopetegui also rejecting the role.

Beale is in his first permanent managerial job with QPR after previously working as an assistant to Steven Gerrard at Aston Villa and Rangers. He has also been no.2 to Rogerio Ceni at Santos in 2017, but was relieved of his duties six months later after the Brazilian was sacked for poor results.

The news means interim joint-managers Steve Davis and James Collins are now set to be in charge for Wolves Premier League clash against Leicester City on Sunday. Both sides find themselves in the relegation zone after a poor start to the season.

What’s next for Wolves?

According to BBC Sport, the Old Gold have also spoken to ex-boss Nuno Espirito Santo about a potential return to Molineux. The Portuguese manager is currently in charge of Saudi Arabian club Al-Ittihad.

The 48-year-old was a fan favourite at Molineux having gained them promotion back to the Premier League in his first campaign as manager after a six-year absence. He was renowned for his investment in Portuguese players, including Ruben Neves.

Meanwhile, the website claims Wolves have also discussed their managerial vacancy with Peter Bosz, who was recently sacked by Lyon with the club ninth in Ligue 1 after four wins in their opening 10 league games. The Dutchman has a decorated CV having also taken charge of Bayer Leverkusen, Ajax and Borussia Dortmund, among other clubs in the past.

Verdict

Another rejection for the Old Gold doesn’t reflect well on them, especially with the club’s current league position. This, added to them being the lowest-scoring team in the top flight with five goals, would rightly put-off potential candidates.

However, there will be someone willing to succeed Lage at Molineux, whether that’s Nuno’s return or another name. It can be said, whoever takes on the role as next Wolves boss will have a tough job on their hands.