Watford Sack Paulo Pezzolano After 10 Games and Reappoint Javi Gracia as Manager
Watford Football Club have made the decision to end Paulo Pezzolano's tenure after only five months and 10 games in control, announcing the return of former boss Javi Gracia as his replacement.
It is understood that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in the spring to take over from the interim manager, along with his backroom team, were instructed not to lead practice on midweek as rumors about his exit mounted on the previous day.
Pezzolano was called to a meeting where he was named the 11th head coach Watford have let go since the beginning of 2020.
"The club is very pleased to reappoint Gracia," said the club's chief executive. "His enthusiasm, guidance and well-defined plan will help us build stability, togetherness and positive energy.
"We believe many fans who hoped Javi had never departed in the past. With this young and exciting team, we are convinced his know-how and qualities are exactly what we need at this moment."
Gracia previously led Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the second time in their history in 2019, but was dismissed a few matches into the next season and most recently coached at Leeds in last year.
"For me, the emotion I have in this moment is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable time of my career," he stated. "There are fond 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 very ambitious for this season. If we are united, we are more powerful."
Pezzolano's sacking comes even after their win against Oxford United at Vicarage Road on the weekend, which lifted them to 11th in the second tier after a slow start that yielded five points from the initial six matches.
The Uruguayan is reportedly left dismayed by the call to sack him, having guided Watford to a three-match unbeaten run that also included a victory at home over Hull City and a tie at Fratton Park, placing them three points off the playoff places.
Pezzolano joined soon after the end of last season with a strong record of leading teams to advancement in La Liga, South America and Uruguay.
