The Hornets Sack Paulo Pezzolano Following a 10-Match Stint and Bring Back Former Boss as Manager
The Championship side have made the move to end their manager's contract after only five months and 10 matches in charge, confirming the return of former boss the Spanish coach 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 lead training on midweek as speculation about his exit mounted on the previous day.
The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he was named the 11th manager Watford have let go since the beginning of 2020.
"We are very pleased to reappoint Javi," stated Watford's chairman and CEO. "His enthusiasm, leadership and clear strategy will foster stability, togetherness and momentum.
"We believe many fans who wished Gracia had never departed in the past. With this talented squad, we are certain his know-how and attributes are exactly what we require at this moment."
Gracia guided Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the second time in the club's history in that year, but was sacked several games into the following campaign and last managed at Leeds in last year.
"For me, the feeling I have right now is that I'm going back home. It was the most enjoyable period of my professional life," Gracia stated. "There are fond recollections and we have loose ends here. For us, it's another significant move in our journey.
"This is something special for us, and simultaneously we are highly motivated for this season. If we are united, we are stronger."
Pezzolano's sacking comes despite their victory against Oxford United at their home ground on the weekend, which lifted them to 11th in the second tier after a difficult opening that yielded five points from the first six games.
Pezzolano is reportedly departed dismayed by the decision to let him go, having guided the side to a undefeated streak of three games that also included a home win over Hull City and a draw at Fratton Park, placing them three points off the playoff places.
The coach joined soon after the end of the previous campaign with a proven track record of leading clubs to promotion in La Liga, Brazil and his home country.
