The Hornets Part Ways With Their Manager After 10 Games and Reappoint Former Boss as Manager
The Championship side have made the decision to end Paulo Pezzolano's contract after just five months and 10 matches in charge, announcing the reappointment of ex-manager Javi Gracia as his successor.
Reports suggest that Pezzolano, who was hired in May to replace the interim manager, along with his technical staff, were told not to take training on Wednesday as rumors about his exit grew on the previous day.
The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he became the 11th head coach the club have let go since the start of the year 2020.
"We are very pleased to reappoint Javi," stated the club's chief executive. "His enthusiasm, leadership and clear strategy will help us build consistency, unity and positive energy.
"We believe many fans who hoped Gracia had stayed on in the past. With this young and exciting team, we are convinced his know-how and qualities are exactly what we need now."
Gracia guided Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in their history in 2019, but was dismissed several games into the next season and most recently coached at Leeds United in last year.
"For me, the feeling I have right now is that I'm going back to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable period of my professional life," he remarked. "There are very good recollections and we have loose ends at Watford. For us, it's a further significant move in our journey.
"It is something special for us, and simultaneously we are highly motivated for this campaign. If we are united, we are more powerful."
The decision to remove Pezzolano comes despite the team's victory against Oxford United at Vicarage Road on Saturday, which moved them to eleventh place in the Championship after a slow start that yielded a handful of points from the initial six matches.
The Uruguayan is reportedly left disappointed by the decision to let him go, having guided Watford to a three-match unbeaten run that featured a home win over Hull City and a draw at Portsmouth, leaving them within touching distance off the playoff places.
Pezzolano arrived soon after the conclusion of last season with a strong record of leading teams to advancement in La Liga, Brazil and Uruguay.
