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The Championship side have taken the move to end their manager's tenure after only five months and 10 matches in charge, announcing the reappointment of former boss the Spanish coach as his successor.

Reports suggest that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in the spring to replace the interim manager, along with his technical staff, were instructed not to take practice on Wednesday as rumors about his exit grew on the previous day.

The 40-year-old was summoned for a discussion where he became the 11th head coach Watford have moved on since the start of 2020.

"The club is very pleased to reappoint Gracia," stated the club's chief executive. "His passion, leadership and clear strategy will help us build stability, unity and momentum.

"We believe many fans who hoped Javi had stayed on in the past. With this talented team, we are certain his experience and attributes are precisely what we need now."

Gracia previously led Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in their history in 2019, but was dismissed several games into the next season and last managed at Leeds United in last year.

"Personally, the feeling I have in this moment is that I'm returning to a familiar place. It was the happiest period of my career," Gracia remarked. "I have very good memories and we have loose ends here. For us, it's another important step in our career.

"It is a unique opportunity for us, and at the same time we are highly motivated for this season. If we are united, we are more powerful."

The decision to remove Pezzolano comes despite their win against Oxford at Vicarage Road on Saturday, which moved them to 11th in the Championship after a difficult opening that earned a handful of points from the first six games.

The Uruguayan is said to have left disappointed by the call to sack him, having led the side to a undefeated streak of three games that also included a home win over Hull City and a tie at Fratton Park, leaving them three points off the promotion playoffs.

Pezzolano arrived shortly after the conclusion of the previous campaign with a proven track record of leading clubs to promotion in La Liga, Brazil and his home country.