This archive report was first published on 7 September 2019.
Watford has made a surprise move by appointing Quique Sanchez Flores as their new head coach, following the sacking of Javi Gracia just five matches into the season.
Sanchez Flores, a 54-year-old Spaniard, returns to Vicarage Road after a successful stint with the Hornets in the 2015/16 season, where he led them to a 13th-placed finish and the FA Cup semi-finals.
Gracia, who was less than a year into a four-and-a-half year contract, was sacked after leading the team to just one win in their last ten matches, a run that stretched back to April.
Despite his departure, Gracia will always be remembered for his achievements, including taking Watford to an 11th-placed finish last season and the FA Cup final.
Chairman Scott Duxbury praised Gracia, saying: “Javi has represented Watford with great dignity and will always be deserving of our fullest respect for his achievements.”
Sanchez Flores has a wealth of experience, having coached Valencia, Benfica, and Atletico Madrid, where he led the team to Europa League and European Super Cup glory.
