The Hornets Sack Paulo Pezzolano Following 10 Games and Bring Back Former Boss as Manager
The Championship side have made the move to terminate their manager's contract after only a brief period and 10 matches in control, announcing the reappointment of ex-manager the Spanish coach as his replacement.
It is understood that Pezzolano, who was hired in May to replace Tom Cleverley, along with his technical staff, were told not to lead practice on midweek as speculation about his exit grew on Tuesday.
Pezzolano was called to a meeting where he was named the 11th head coach the club have moved on since the start of 2020.
"We are very pleased to reappoint Gracia," said Watford's chairman and CEO. "His passion, leadership and clear strategy will foster stability, unity and positive energy.
"We are sure many fans who hoped Gracia had stayed on in 2019. With this talented team, we are convinced his know-how and attributes are exactly what we need at this moment."
Gracia guided the team to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in their history in 2019, but was sacked a few matches into the next season and last managed at Leeds in last year.
"For me, the feeling I have in this moment is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable time of my professional life," he remarked. "There are fond recollections and we have unfinished business here. For us, it's another important step in our journey.
"It is a unique opportunity 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 the team's victory against Oxford at Vicarage Road on the weekend, which moved them to eleventh place in the second tier after a slow start that earned five points from the first six games.
The Uruguayan is said to have departed dismayed by the decision to let him go, having guided the side to a three-match unbeaten run that also included a home win over Hull City and a draw at Fratton Park, leaving them three points off the playoff places.
The coach arrived soon after the conclusion of last season with a strong record of leading clubs to advancement in Spain, South America and his home country.
