Football Season Guide

A disappointing 2022/23 season back in the Championship for Watford, following relegation from the Premier League, saw them finish 11th. Watford have a recent history of hiring and firing managers and it was no different in 2022/23 with Rob Edwards, Slaven Bilic and Chris Wilder all having stints in charge. Now there is another new man in the hotseat. Valerian Ismael has had mixed results with managing Championship teams, so it remains to be seen how he gets on. The off season has seen some notable player departures. Key attacking players from last season, talented winger Sarr and dangerous forward Joao Pedro have both moved on for substantial fees. With both sales combined bringing in around £45 million. There has been a significant trimming of a bloated, stale squad. So far there haven’t been many incomings or money spent. However, the few signings made look promising. Livermore, Ince and Lewis are experienced Championship performers. Striker Healey was injured most of last season, but has scored goals in the French top fight in previous campaigns. Ismael is known for implementing a high energy, pressing game. The Watford players will go out onto the pitch with a clear idea of their roles and the style of play. With all the managerial changes this has maybe not been the case in recent seasons. With Sarr, Joao Pedro and Davis gone there are concerns over the creativity and potency in attack.