The Hornets Dismiss Paulo Pezzolano Following a 10-Match Stint and Bring Back Former Boss as Head Coach

Watford Football Club have made the decision to end their manager's tenure after only a brief period and 10 games in charge, confirming the reappointment of former boss the Spanish coach as his replacement.

Reports suggest that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in the spring to take over from Tom Cleverley, along with his backroom team, were told not to take practice on Wednesday as rumors about his exit mounted on the previous day.

The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he became the 11th manager the club have let go since the beginning of 2020.

"The club is delighted to reappoint Gracia," stated the club's chief executive. "His passion, leadership and well-defined plan will foster stability, unity and positive energy.

"We believe there are many supporters who wished Gracia had stayed on in 2019. With this young and exciting squad, we are certain his experience and attributes are precisely what we require now."

The returning manager previously led Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in the club's history in 2019, but was dismissed several games into the next season and last managed at Leeds United in last year.

"Personally, the feeling I have right now is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable time of my professional life," Gracia remarked. "There are very good recollections and we have unfinished business here. For us, it's another important step in our journey.

"It is something special for us, and at the same time we are very ambitious for this campaign. If we are together, we are more powerful."

The decision to remove Pezzolano comes despite their victory against Oxford United at their home ground on Saturday, which moved them to 11th in the Championship after a difficult opening that yielded a handful of points from the initial six matches.

Pezzolano is reportedly departed dismayed by the call to sack him, having guided Watford to a undefeated streak of three games that featured a victory at home over Hull City and a draw at Fratton Park, placing them three points off the playoff places.

Pezzolano arrived shortly after the conclusion of last season with a strong record of leading clubs to advancement in La Liga, South America and his home country.

Shelby Buck
Shelby Buck

A cybersecurity specialist and tech writer with over a decade of experience in digital innovation and enterprise solutions.