Despite being top-flight mainstays during the late 90s and throughout the 00s under Robson, McClaren and Southgate, with the second leading Boro to a Europa League final in 2006, Boro have tasted Premier League football once in the past 16 years, thanks to playoff heroics under Aitor Karanka.
However, this only lasted for one season, and they were relegated in 19th in 2017.
In the eight seasons that have followed, six permanent managers have attempted to guide Middlesbrough back to the Premier League, with the most recent Michael Carrick coming the closest.
Carrick’s False Hope
Many believed that Carrick was the man to deliver promotion, but despite an incredibly promising first season alongside a plethora of hugely talented players at his disposal, Boro have fallen significantly short of their expectations.
Who Is Rob Edwards And What’s His Track Record?
Rob Edwards is a manager built through experience and success.
The Welshman first made a name for himself as a manager in the 2021/22 season, leading Forest Green Rovers to the EFL League Two title in his first season managing in professional football.
This earnt him the Watford job, in which he was relieved of his duties somewhat unfairly after 11 games.
However, what followed may excite some Boro fans ahead of the 2025-26 season. This is because Edwards was able to guide rivals Luton Town to the Premier League.
Following this, Edwards was able to guide the Hatters to some impressive results in the top division whilst playing his flamboyant 3-4-1-2 formation, which will most likely be his favoured style in the North East.
How Does Rob Edwards’ Style Help Middlesborough’s Players?
Edwards’ utilisation of wing-backs will arguably benefit the likes of Anfernee Dijksteel, an energetic, powerful wing-back who can slot into this new aggressive, high pressing, front footed system nicely.
The focus on bravery, flexibility and dynamism that Edwards likes can arguably only improve Boro’s creative players such as Finn Azaz and Hayden Hackney, potentially taking their technical brilliance to the next level.
If this was to occur, it would lead to more chances for the likes of Tommy Conway and Morgan Whittaker. This would therefore increase the number of goals the Riverside outfit are able to score.
Can He Be Successful?
Based on Edwards’ brilliant record of getting promoted no matter what division he is based in and his highly praised man management skills, I believe that Middlesbrough will be a serious force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season and possibly in with a serious shot at promotion, a surprise package to the newly-relegated sides.
This belief can be further supported through the fact that Boro’s squad is full of extremely talented players for the English second tier.
But, what do you think? Can Rob Edwards guide Middlesborough back to the Premier League? Tell usin the comments below.
