Former Watford manager Javi Gracia says he was surprised at his dismissal just after four games into the Premier League season.
The Hornets have welcomed back Quique Sanchez Flores to the club after he left in 2016. Gracia had been in charge since 2018 and was the first Watford manager to last more than one season since Gianfranco Zola was boss in the Championship.
The 49-year-old Spaniard led the side to 25 wins out of his 66 games in charge and guided them to the FA Cup final last season. However, they lost 6-0 to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.
Club Statement: Javi Gracia
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 7, 2019
It just took the club 15 minutes to announce Gracia's replacement after announcing he was leaving the club on Saturday.
Javi Gracia said in a statement, "after the unexpected announcement about the termination of my contract after only four matches, I want to express my surprise after completing the best season in Watford's history," Gracia said in a statement.
"I respect this decision and I'd like to reassure the excellent relationship I have with Gino Pozzo and Filippo Giradi, and it is not going to change despite my abrupt exit of the club.
#watfordfc announces the appointment of Quique Sánchez Flores as the club’s new Head Coach.https://t.co/XqhpUvCwpT pic.twitter.com/HcU7Z87H79
— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 7, 2019
"I am grateful to this club for allowing me to manage this great club in the Premier League, it has been an incredible experience, with very special moments like the FA Cup final I had the privilege to enjoy.
"I want to thank every single person who works for this club and has made my every day very easy. My gratefulness and love for this club will be eternal.
"And finally, I want to thank the fans for supporting me the way they did from day one, until my last. I will always wish the fans and these players the best."
Quique Sanchez Flores' return to Vicarage Road makes him their 12th manager since 2010.
