Watford confirm the return of Javi Gracia | OneFootball

Watford have officially appointed Javi Gracia as head coach for a second time with Paulo Pezzolano dismissed by the club.

Pezzolano was appointed at the very end of the 2024/25 last season and has overseen just 10 games before being given his marching orders by the club with the Hornets sitting 11th in the Championship.

The Uruguayan won three of his games, drawing three, and losing four with Watford having won two of their last three games in the league.

Former manager Javi Gracia has now returned to the club after having a relatively lengthy 66-game spell from 2018 to 2019.

"We are very pleased to welcome back Javi," said club chairman Scott Duxbury about the appointment of the 55-year-old.

"His passion, leadership and clear strategy will help us build stability, unity and momentum.

"We are sure there are many supporters who wished Javi had never departed in 2019. With this young and exciting squad we are convinced his experience and qualities are exactly what we need now."

Gracia will begin his second spell in charge of Watford on October 18th when his side face Sheffield United at Bramall Lane.