The Hornets Dismiss Their Manager After a 10-Match Stint and Bring Back Former Boss as Manager
Watford Football Club have taken the decision to end their manager's tenure after just a brief period and 10 matches in control, confirming the reappointment of ex-manager the Spanish coach as his replacement.
It is understood that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in May to take over from Tom Cleverley, along with his technical staff, were instructed not to lead training on Wednesday as rumors about his imminent departure mounted on the previous day.
Pezzolano was summoned for a discussion where he became the 11th manager the club have let go since the start of the year 2020.
"We are very pleased to welcome back Gracia," stated Watford's chairman and CEO. "His enthusiasm, guidance and well-defined plan will help us build stability, togetherness and momentum.
"We are sure there are many supporters who hoped Javi had never departed in the past. With this young and exciting squad, we are convinced his experience and qualities are exactly what we require at this moment."
Gracia guided Watford to the FA Cup final for the second time in their history in that year, but was sacked a few matches into the next season and last managed at Leeds in last year.
"Personally, the feeling I have in this moment is that I'm returning home. It was the most enjoyable period of my professional life," he remarked. "I have fond recollections and we have unfinished business here. For us, it's a further important step in our journey.
"It is a unique opportunity for us, and simultaneously we are very ambitious for this season. If we are united, we are stronger."
Pezzolano's sacking arrives despite their win against Oxford at Vicarage Road on Saturday, which moved them to 11th in the second tier after a slow start that earned a handful of points from the initial six matches.
The Uruguayan is reportedly left dismayed by the decision to let him go, having led Watford to a undefeated streak of three games that featured a home win over Hull and a tie at Fratton Park, placing them within touching distance off the playoff places.
The coach arrived shortly after the conclusion of last season with a strong record of leading teams to promotion in La Liga, South America and his home country.
