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Watford Football Club have taken the decision to end Paulo Pezzolano's tenure after just five months and 10 games in charge, confirming the reappointment of former boss Javi Gracia as his successor.

Reports suggest that Pezzolano, who was hired in May to replace Tom Cleverley, along with his technical staff, were told not to take training on Wednesday as rumors about his exit grew on Tuesday.

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

"The club is delighted to reappoint Javi," stated Watford's chairman and CEO. "His passion, leadership and well-defined plan will foster consistency, togetherness and momentum.

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

The returning manager previously led Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in their history in 2019, but was sacked several games into the following campaign and last managed at Leeds United in last year.

"Personally, the feeling I have right now is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the most enjoyable time of my professional life," Gracia stated. "There are fond recollections and we have unfinished business at Watford. For us, it's a further important step in our journey.

"It is a unique opportunity for us, and at the same time we are highly motivated for this campaign. If we are together, we are stronger."

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

The Uruguayan is said to have left dismayed by the decision to let him go, having led Watford to a undefeated streak of three games that featured a victory at home over Hull City and a tie at Portsmouth, placing them within touching distance off the playoff places.

Pezzolano arrived shortly after the conclusion of last season with a proven track record of leading teams to advancement in La Liga, Brazil and his home country.