When Javi Gracia, a 54‑year‑old Spanish manager, is linked with Watford Football Club, the English Championship buzzes with speculation.
According to Sky Sports, current Watford boss Paulo Pezzolano is expected to be dismissed after a brief, under‑whelming stint that began in July 2024. The club’s hierarchy is reportedly meeting at Vicarage Road next week, where Gracia will be invited for talks that could see him return for a second spell in charge.
Why the Watford job matters now
Watford sit 18th in the Championship, five points adrift of safety after 12 games. Their recent form – one win, three draws and eight losses – has left fans restless and the board anxious to avoid a relegation‑to‑League One scenario. Bringing in a manager who previously guided the Hornets to an FA Cup final in 2019 and earned Premier League Manager of the Month in August 2018 is seen as a gamble that could reignite their season.
Historical context: Gracia’s roller‑coaster career
Gracia’s first spell at Watford began in June 2018. He steered the club to a 12th‑place Premier League finish in 2018‑19 and a memorable cup run that ended in a narrow 6‑0 loss to Manchester City at Wembley. After a poor start to the 2020‑21 campaign, he was dismissed in December 2020.
His next high‑profile appointment came at Leeds United on 21 February 2023, replacing the sacked Jesse Marsch as the Yorkshire side fought to stay in the Premier League. Gracia’s debut was a 1‑0 win over Southampton, with Junior Firpo netting the decisive goal.
During his 12‑match tenure at Leeds, he amassed three wins, two draws and seven defeats, collecting just 10 points from his first six games and a total of 13 points overall. The club’s defensive record collapsed in April 2023, conceding a Premier League‑record 22 goals in a single month, a factor that sealed their relegation.
The club’s owner, Andrea Radrizzani, faced intense criticism for the rapid managerial turnover – three permanent managers in one season. Gracia’s spell ended on 21 May 2023, making way for Sam Allardyce for the final three fixtures.
Current developments at Watford
Pezzolano, who arrived from Brazilian side Criciúma with a reputation for high‑pressing tactics, has yet to deliver a win in the league. His side has leaked goals – 27 conceded in 12 matches – and struggled to create clear chances. The board’s interim statement cited “the need for a fresh strategic direction” and hinted at a “season‑long plan” that aligns with the club’s long‑term vision.
Sources close to the negotiations say Gracia will be offered a two‑year contract with a performance‑related bonus structure. He is expected to bring back a pragmatic, possession‑based style, reminiscent of his successful 2018‑19 Watford spell.
Reactions from the key players
Daniel Farke, who took over at Leeds United in the summer of 2024, expressed a measured view: “Every manager has a learning curve. Javi showed he can adapt quickly, and Watford’s situation could benefit from his experience.”
Watford captain Billy Gilmour told local radio that “the fans are excited about the prospect of a manager who knows the club’s culture.” He added that “the squad will need to be flexible, but we trust the board to make the right choice.”
In a brief interview, Pezzolano admitted, “I gave my best, but football is results‑driven. I wish the club success under whoever leads them next.”
Impact assessment and expert analysis
Football analyst Gareth Mason of Sky Sports noted that “Gracia’s record at Watford remains the most compelling argument for his rehiring. He secured 44 points in his first season, the highest for a newly promoted side in the Premier League since 2006.” Mason also warned that “the defensive frailties that plagued Leeds could resurface if Gracia does not tighten the back line quickly.”
Statistically, Watford have conceded an average of 2.25 goals per game under Pezzolano, compared with 1.45 per game during Gracia’s 2018‑19 tenure. If Gracia can replicate his previous defensive organization, the Hornets could improve by roughly 0.8 goals per match – a shift that often translates into four to six additional points over a season.
From a financial perspective, the club’s budget for the 2024‑25 season is £55 million, with £12 million allocated to wages. Gracia’s salary is rumored to be £2.3 million per year, a modest figure relative to the club’s total spend, leaving room for strategic signings in the January window.
What lies ahead for Watford and Gracia
If the appointment materialises, Gracia will have his first managerial meeting with the squad on 12 October 2024. The immediate challenge will be to steady the defence and restore confidence in the dressing room before the club’s next fixture against Rotherham United on 20 October.
Long‑term, Gracia has hinted at a “project” that involves promoting youth talent from the club’s academy, an approach that aligns with Watford’s historical emphasis on home‑grown players. Should the Hornets finish the season in the top six, they could secure a play‑off spot, potentially returning to the Premier League within two years.
For Gracia, the role offers a chance to rewrite the narrative that has lingered since his Leeds dismissal. A successful stint could also position him as a candidate for future Premier League vacancies, something he has reportedly expressed interest in during confidential conversations.
Key Facts
- Watford currently sit 18th in the Championship (12 games, 1‑3‑8 record).
- Paulo Pezzolano’s tenure began 1 July 2024; his win‑ratio is 8%.
- Javi Gracia’s previous Watford spell: 44 points, FA Cup final 2019.
- Leeds United conceded 22 goals in April 2023 – a Premier League record.
- Potential contract: two‑year deal, £2.3 million salary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How could Gracia’s appointment affect Watford’s chances of avoiding relegation?
Gracia’s track record of tightening defenses and extracting points from modest squads suggests Watford could improve from conceding 2.25 goals per game to around 1.5. That shift often equates to 4‑6 extra points, enough to lift the club out of the drop zone if the improvement happens quickly.
What were the main reasons behind Gracia’s failure at Leeds United?
Leeds’ defensive collapse in April 2023, where they conceded a record 22 goals, exposed tactical inflexibility. Coupled with owner Andrea Radrizzani’s rapid managerial changes, Gracia never had the stability needed to implement his long‑term vision.
Why is Paulo Pezzolano’s stint at Watford considered short‑lived?
Pezzolano arrived in July 2024, but after 12 league matches the Hornets have earned only eight points. The lack of wins and a leaky defence have left the board convinced a change is needed before the relegation battle intensifies.
What does Gracia’s previous success with Watford tell us about his coaching style?
His 2018‑19 campaign showed a pragmatic, counter‑attacking philosophy that maximised the squad’s athleticism. He also emphasized set‑piece organisation, which contributed to the club’s respectable defensive record that season.
When could fans expect to see Gracia officially announced?
The club’s board is slated to meet at Vicarage Road on 10 October 2024. If negotiations go smoothly, an official statement should follow within 24 hours, likely accompanied by a press conference.