Watford manager ed still sacked
Watford FC has sacked head coach Ed Still just 83 days into his tenure, marking the third managerial departure this season. Still’s time at the club ended following a series of disappointing performances that left Watford in a precarious position in the Championship.
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.