Bristol City’s Championship rivals Watford have hired a familiar face having parted company with head coach Paulo PezzolanoWatford boss Javi Gracia during his time in charge of Leeds United(Image: Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Bristol City’s Championship rivals Watford have re-appointed Javi Gracia as their head coach six years after his first spell in charge at Vicarage Road came to an end, having parted company with Paulo Pezzolano.

The Hornets confirmed in a statement on Wednesday morning that the decision had been made to part ways with Pezzolano and his backroom staff after a mixed start to the Championship season. Watford currently sit 11th in the Championship heading into the October international break, but are unbeaten in each of their last three matches.

Pezzolano had only been named Hornets boss in May after the club made the decision to sack Tom Cleverley, a matter of days after Watford’s final game of the 2024/25 season, a 1-1 home draw with Sheffield Wednesday.

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The Uruguayan was appointed with the intention of refocusing the group ahead of the new season, with Watford harbouring ambitions to push for promotion this term. However, after just nine league games, he has left Vicarage Road and been replaced by Gracia, who previously took charge of the club between 2018 and 2019.

In a statement shared to their website, the Hornets said, ‘Watford FC are delighted to confirm the return of Javi Gracia as head coach after deciding to part ways with Paulo Pezzolano and his backroom staff, whom we thank sincerely for their efforts and commitment during their time in charge. We wish them every success in the future.

‘In appointing Javi, the club are confident that he will bring the qualities we believe are vital for this young squad: consistency in team selection, harmony within the dressing room and a strong connection with our supporters. His vision and approach align closely with our objectives.’

Watford chairman and chief executive Scott Duxbury added, “We are very pleased to welcome back Javi. His passion, leadership and clear strategy will help us build stability, unity and momentum.

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“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.”

Gerhard Struber and City are yet to face the Hornets so far this season, but will travel to Vicarage Road early next month for what will be Gracia’s third home game of his second stint at the club.

The Robins face Watford in front of the Sky Sports cameras on Friday, November 7, before welcoming Gracia’s side to Ashton Gate for the return fixture on Saturday, February 28.

After the October international break, the Spanish boss will kick off his second spell in charge of the Hornets with a trip to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United on Saturday, October 18. That clash against the Blades is quickly followed by a home game against West Brom on Wednesday, October 22.

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