The Hornets Dismiss Their Manager After a 10-Match Stint and Reappoint Former Boss as Manager
Watford Football Club have made the move to terminate their manager's tenure after just a brief period and 10 games in control, announcing the return of ex-manager Javi Gracia as his replacement.
Reports suggest that the Uruguayan coach, appointed in May to take over from the interim manager, along with his backroom team, were instructed not to lead training on Wednesday as rumors about his exit mounted on the previous day.
The 40-year-old was called to a meeting where he was named the 11th head coach the club have let go since the beginning of 2020.
"We are very pleased to welcome back Javi," said the club's chief executive. "His passion, leadership and clear strategy will foster consistency, unity and momentum.
"We believe there are many supporters who wished Gracia had never departed in the past. With this talented squad, we are certain his experience and qualities are exactly what we need now."
The returning manager previously led the team to the FA Cup showpiece for the second time in the club's history in 2019, but was dismissed several games into the following campaign and most recently coached at Leeds in 2023.
"For me, the emotion I have right now is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable period of my career," Gracia stated. "There are fond memories and we have loose ends here. For us, it's a further important step in our career.
"It is a unique opportunity for us, and simultaneously we are very ambitious for this season. If we are together, we are more powerful."
Pezzolano's sacking comes even after their win against Oxford at their home ground on Saturday, which lifted 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 disappointed by the call to sack him, having led Watford to a three-match unbeaten run that also included a victory at home over Hull City and a draw at Fratton Park, placing them three points off the playoff places.
Pezzolano joined shortly after the conclusion of the previous campaign with a strong record of leading clubs to advancement in La Liga, Brazil and Uruguay.