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Watford Football Club have taken the decision to end their manager's contract after just a brief period and 10 matches in control, announcing the reappointment of former boss Javi Gracia as his successor.

It is understood that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in the spring to replace the interim manager, along with his technical staff, were told not to lead training on midweek as rumors about his imminent departure grew on Tuesday.

Pezzolano was called to a discussion where he was named the 11th head coach Watford have let go since the beginning of 2020.

"The club is delighted to reappoint Gracia," stated Watford's chairman and CEO. "His passion, leadership and clear strategy will foster consistency, unity and positive energy.

"We are sure many fans who wished Javi had stayed on in 2019. With this talented team, we are certain his experience and qualities are exactly what we need at this moment."

Gracia previously led Watford to the FA Cup final for the only other occasion in their history in that year, but was sacked a few matches into the following campaign and most recently coached at Leeds in last year.

"For me, the emotion I have in this moment is that I'm going back home. It was the most enjoyable period of my career," he remarked. "I have fond recollections and we have unfinished business at Watford. For us, it's a further important step in our journey.

"This is something special for us, and at the same time we are highly motivated for this campaign. If we are together, we are more powerful."

Pezzolano's sacking arrives even after the team's win against Oxford at Vicarage Road on the weekend, which moved them to eleventh place in the Championship after a slow start that earned five points from the first six games.

Pezzolano is said to have left disappointed by the decision to let him go, having led the side to a undefeated streak of three games that featured a home win over Hull and a draw at Portsmouth, leaving them three points off the promotion playoffs.

The coach arrived soon after the conclusion of the previous campaign with a proven track record of leading clubs to advancement in Spain, Brazil and his home country.