Watford appoint their FIFTH new manager in 12 months

Just 10 games into the new Championship campaign, the Hornets have made another change in the dugout.

Watford have replaced manager Rob Edwards with Slaven Bilic.

The Londoners gave Edwards his marching orders on Monday. The former Forest Green and Wolves coach lasted just 87 days in the role after his summer arrival. He recorded three wins, five draws, and three defeats to lead the club to 10th place in the Championship and a second-round EFL Cup exit.

Then, barely 15 minutes following Edwards’ exit announcement, Watford confirmed Bilic’s appointment on an 18-month contract.

Watford FC confirms Slaven Bilić as its new Head Coach on an 18-month contract, subject to receiving the relevant work permit.

— Watford Football Club (@WatfordFC) September 26, 2022

“As with all decisions taken by the Board, I believe this change to be in the best interests of the club,” Watford owner Gino Pozzo told the club’s website.

“We felt Rob had enough time to show us the identity of his team. However, performances haven’t reflected our hopes and ambitions.

“Now we must move forward, and, in Slaven Bilic, we have secured the services of an experienced coach who has recent experience of promotion to the Premier League.”

Bilic is the fifth managerial appointment Watford have made since October 2021 after Xisco, Claudio Ranieri, Roy Hodgson, and Edwards.

His last coaching role was in China with Beijing Guoan until January. He left the Chinese club by mutual consent after overseeing 9 wins, 6 draws, and 7 defeats in 22 games in charge.

The 54-year-old Croatian has previously coached London sides West Ham and West Brom.