Watford Football Club has officially confirmed the departure of head coach Javi Gracia, who resigned from his position at Vicarage Road following a disappointing home defeat. The club now faces a crucial decision in appointing a new manager as they navigate the critical final stages of the Championship season.
Gracia's Departure After Swansea Defeat
The resignation came after Watford suffered a 2-0 loss to promotion-chasing Swansea City on Sunday, a result that extended the Hornets' winless run to five consecutive matches. Despite this poor form, Watford remain within striking distance of the play-off positions, sitting just four points adrift in tenth place in the Championship table.
In an official statement released by the club, Watford expressed their disappointment at Gracia's decision to step down. "We retain the belief Javi was the right man to lead the club towards its push for promotion," the statement read. "But Javi felt he no longer had the motivation and was not the right man to continue coaching this exciting group of young players. We respect his decision and accept his wish to leave Vicarage Road with immediate effect."
Interim Arrangements and Permanent Search
While the club conducts its search for a permanent replacement, an interim coaching team consisting of Charlie Daniels, Dan Gosling, and Adrian Mariappa will take temporary charge. Their first match in command will be Tuesday night's fixture against Hull City at Vicarage Road.
The search for Gracia's successor has already begun in earnest, with several experienced Championship managers emerging as potential candidates for the vacant position.
Leading Contenders for the Watford Job
Will Still: Former Southampton Manager
One of the early frontrunners is former Southampton boss Will Still, who was dismissed from St Mary's Stadium in November after a brief tenure. The 33-year-old manager had been appointed by Southampton in May as they prepared for their relegation from the Premier League, but managed just four victories from his sixteen matches in charge.
Following his departure from Southampton, Still reflected on his experience in a social media message: "No journey is without its challenges. There have been difficult personal periods and to be let go by Southampton in November was one of them. Did it hurt? Of course. I am passionate about my work as a head coach... I also know I didn't get everything right and on reflection there are things I'd have done differently."
Marti Cifuentes: Ex-QPR and Leicester Boss
Another strong contender is former Queens Park Rangers and Leicester City manager Marti Cifuentes, who is reportedly considered a favourite for the Watford position. The Catalan head coach's tenure at Leicester lasted just six months before his dismissal last month, though he had previously built a solid reputation during his time at QPR.
Cifuentes' departure from Loftus Road was somewhat controversial, with the manager placed on gardening leave before eventually having his contract terminated. He had previously been linked with the managerial vacancy at West Bromwich Albion before becoming available.
Russell Martin: Potential Return to Management
Watford could also consider Russell Martin should the former Swansea City and Southampton manager be ready to return to football management. Martin's most recent position at Rangers proved challenging, with his 123-day tenure making him the Glasgow club's shortest-serving manager in history.
The club's decision-makers will need to weigh these options carefully as they seek a manager capable of revitalising Watford's promotion push during the business end of the Championship season.
