Watford Sack Their Manager Following a 10-Match Stint and Reappoint Former Boss as Head Coach
The Championship side have made the move to end Paulo Pezzolano's tenure after only five months and 10 games in charge, confirming the return of ex-manager Javi Gracia as his successor.
It is understood that Pezzolano, who was hired in May to take over from Tom Cleverley, along with his technical staff, were told not to lead training on midweek as rumors about his imminent departure grew on the previous day.
The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he was named the 11th head coach Watford have moved on since the start of 2020.
"We are very pleased to reappoint Javi," stated Watford's chairman and CEO. "His enthusiasm, guidance and clear strategy will help us build stability, unity and momentum.
"We believe there are many supporters who wished Javi had never departed in the past. With this talented squad, we are convinced his know-how and qualities are exactly what we require at this moment."
The returning manager previously led the team to the FA Cup showpiece for the second time in their history in that year, but was sacked several games into the following campaign and last managed at Leeds United in last year.
"Personally, the emotion I have in this moment is that I'm going back home. It was the most enjoyable time of my professional life," he stated. "There are fond recollections and we have unfinished business at Watford. For us, it's another important step in our career.
"This is something special for us, and simultaneously we are very ambitious for this season. If we are together, we are stronger."
The decision to remove Pezzolano arrives even after their victory against Oxford at Vicarage Road on Saturday, which moved them to 11th in the second tier after a difficult opening that earned five points from the first six games.
The Uruguayan is said to have left dismayed by the call to let him go, having led the side to a undefeated streak of three games that also included a victory at home over Hull City and a tie at Fratton Park, placing them three points off the promotion playoffs.
The coach arrived shortly after the conclusion of the previous campaign with a strong record of guiding teams to promotion in La Liga, Brazil and Uruguay.
