Watford are reportedly on the verge of sacking manager Paulo Pezzolano after just 10 games in charge, and are in talks to bring back Javi Gracia as his replacement. Pezzolano, who was appointed in May 2025 to replace Tom Cleverley, has been summoned to a meeting where his departure is expected to be confirmed. His technical staff have already been instructed not to conduct training. If the sacking occurs, Pezzolano will be the 11th manager Watford have dismissed since 2020.
Despite a recent victory over Oxford and a three-match unbeaten run that lifted the team to 11th in the Championship standings, three points off the playoffs, the club is expected to part ways with the Uruguayan manager. Watford have won three, drawn three, and lost three of their nine games thus far.
Javi Gracia, who previously managed Watford from January 2018 to September 2019, is the frontrunner to take over. During his previous stint, Gracia led the Hornets to the FA Cup final in 2019 and secured their highest league finish in over 30 years. However, he was sacked just a few months later. Gracia's last managerial role was with Leeds United in 2023.
Watford have become known for their frequent managerial changes. Since Aidy Boothroyd's departure in 2008, no Watford manager has reached 100 games. Since Gracia's first stint, Watford have had 12 managers.
Sky Sports reported that Gracia is the number one target to replace Pezzolano. There are reports that accommodation is already being arranged for the Spaniard. Former Watford captain Troy Deeney has given contrasting opinions on Pezzolano and Gracia. Deeney stated that Pezzolano has fallen out with everybody.
Other potential candidates that bookmakers have identified include Alberto Garrido, currently the first team coach at Watford, and Diego Alonso, who was linked to the job before Pezzolano's appointment.
The club's owner, Gino Pozzo, is known for his ruthless streak when it comes to hiring and firing managers. He admitted that his main focus would be on progressing Watford back to their previous position.
