During his short stint, Still recorded a dismal record of 3 wins, 4 draws, and 8 defeats across 15 matches. This performance contributed to Watford finishing 16th in the Championship, which is a significant 16 points off the play-off pace. The team lost its last five league fixtures, conceding 16 goals while managing to score only once.

Still was appointed on February 9, 2026, on a two-and-a-half-year contract. However, his tenure was marred by poor results and mounting pressure from fans and management alike. This latest change adds to a troubling trend for Watford under owner Gino Pozzo, who has overseen an astonishing 23 permanent managerial appointments since taking control in 2012.

The club has cycled through 15 head coaches since September 2019, indicating a persistent instability that raises questions about its long-term strategy. Following Still’s departure, First Team Coach Karim Belhocine also left the club.

A statement from Watford FC expressed their gratitude toward Still and Belhocine: “Watford FC have this morning parted company with head coach Ed Still. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.” Scott Duxbury, Watford’s chief executive, acknowledged that improvements are necessary moving forward.

Duxbury commented, “We have to accept there were things we got wrong – and things that MUST improve over the close season.” Meanwhile, Ed Still emphasized the need for a reset: “The end of season is needed and there is plenty of time to reset, reshape and start again afresh from the summer.”

The search for a new manager will begin shortly, marking Watford’s fifth appointment in just one year. This ongoing cycle of managerial changes reflects deeper issues within the club’s structure and performance strategy.

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Before this development, expectations were moderately high for Still. The team finished 16th in the Championship, which left them 10 points above the relegation zone. However, his record deteriorated rapidly as he lost six of his final seven games as head coach.

Under Ed Still’s management, Watford experienced one of their worst seasons ever at the second-tier level. His points-per-game tally stood at just 0.87, with a total of eight losses out of 15 matches. This performance not only disappointed fans but also prompted club owner Gino Pozzo to make a decisive change.

The impact of this decision extends beyond just Still. Karim Belhocine also left the club alongside him, indicating a broader shake-up within the coaching staff. This marks Pozzo’s ongoing trend of managerial instability; he has now hired 24 permanent head coaches since 2012.

Still expressed the need for a reset during his brief time at the club, stating, “A reset is needed. We need to reset the squad, the staff and make sure that the energy around the team… is much stronger.” His vision for improvement will now be left to his successor.

The team’s next challenge will be crucial as they look to rebuild and avoid further decline in performance. As they prepare for the upcoming season, Watford faces significant pressure to reshape both their squad and strategy.

This managerial change comes after a disappointing season where Watford suffered a 4-0 defeat to Coventry City, highlighting the urgent need for fresh leadership and direction.

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