Watford name Alessio Dionisi new head coach for two years in 2026

Watford appointed Italian manager Alessio Dionisi as their new head coach on a two-year deal following the sacking of Ed Still.

New head coach appointed The club announced that Alessio Dionisi will take charge at Vicarage Road as the permanent head coach. The Italian manager, aged 46, signs a two-year contract to replace Ed Still, who was dismissed on May 3 after just under three months in the role. Still’s exit followed a heavy 4-0 defeat against Coventry City, marking his final match in charge. Watford finished the Championship season in 16th place, 16 points behind the play-off positions. ## Recent managerial changes Dionisi becomes the twelfth permanent head coach Watford has hired since the conclusion of the 2020-21 season, excluding temporary caretakers. His appointment marks the twenty-fourth managerial change at the club since the Pozzo family assumed ownership in 2012. The decision comes after a challenging spell for Still, who was unable to steer the team away from mid-table struggles. His departure left the club searching for a fresh direction under new leadership. ## Dionisi’s previous role Before joining Watford, Dionisi was dismissed by Serie B side Empoli in March after five months in charge. His tenure saw only five victories from twenty-two games, prompting the club to end his contract. Despite his sacking, he remained under contract with Empoli under gardening leave terms until Watford secured his release. The agreement between Watford and Empoli concluded his existing deal, originally set to extend until late in 2027. ## Club ownership details The Pozzo family has overseen Watford since 2012, overseeing multiple managerial changes across that period. Under their ownership, the club has seen several Italian managers appointed, with Dionisi becoming the fifth in that category. The family’s long-term involvement has shaped Watford’s approach to leadership transitions in recent years. This latest appointment continues that trend of bringing in Italian coaching talent. ## Club performance context Watford’s 16th-place finish in the Championship left them well adrift of the play-off race. The final match under Still ended in a humiliating 4-0 loss to Coventry City, underscoring the team’s struggles. The club’s search for improvement led to the decision to bring in Dionisi for a fresh start. His arrival signals a new chapter in Watford’s ongoing managerial history.