WATFORD have sacked manager Paulo Pezzolano after just 10 games in charge.
The Uruguayan was dismissed despite two wins and a draw in his last three matches.
And he has been replaced by Javi Gracia, who previously took charge of the Hornets for 66 games between January 2018 and September 2019.
Pezzolano was trigger-happy owner Gino Pozzo’s 22nd appointment as Watford manager, replacing the popular Tom Cleverley.
And his sacking at Watford was reduced to a footnote in a statement naming his successor.
The club posted on social media: “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.”
Pezzolano joined Watford in May, having managed Mexican giants Pachuca, Brazilian side Cruzeiro and Spanish outfit Valladolid.
But his first six games did not go to plan, with the Hornets bagging just five points as the Uruguayan struggled to impose his style of play.
However, Watford are now only three points off the playoffs following Saturday’s 2-1 comeback win at Oxford United.
Yet that has not stopped the Hornets hierarchy from wielding the axe.
Pezzolano departs with the third-shortest reign in Watford’s history.
Only Billy McKinlay and Oscar Garcia took charge of fewer games, with two and four matches respectively.
He won 25 of his 66 games during an 18-month spell.
Gracia has since managed Valencia and Al-Sadd.
And he also had an ill-fated spell at Leeds in 2023, where he lasted less than three months after as many wins in 12 games.
Gracia is yet to take charge of a club since leaving Elland Road.
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