“We are very pleased to welcome back Javi,” Watford chairman and chief executive Scott Duxbury told the club website., external
“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.”
The club added they “thank sincerely” Pezzolano and his staff “for their efforts and commitment during their time in charge”.
Gracia’s return to Vicarage Road comes more than two years after he was sacked by Leeds United in May 2023, having been in charge for only 12 games, to make way for Sam Allardyce.
His first spell at Watford lasted from January 2018 to September 2019, that 20-month tenure being the longest enjoyed by any Hornets boss in the past 14 years.
During his time in charge, Watford achieved a best-ever Premier League finish of 11th place and also reached the FA Cup final before losing 6-0 to Manchester City.
They were, however, bottom of the top flight when Watford decided to part company with him, and bring back Quique Sanchez Flores for a second spell in charge, a decision which backfired as he only lasted three months.
Gracia will immediately begin working with the Hornets squad before his first game back in charge against Sheffield United at Bramall Lane on Saturday, 18 October.
