NewKerala.com

Key Points

Watford FC has parted ways with head coach Tom Cleverley after a disappointing Championship campaign. The former midfielder initially stabilized the team as an interim coach before being permanently appointed last summer. Despite showing early promise, Watford's performances declined, resulting in a 14th place finish. The club's sporting director praised Cleverley's contributions while signaling a desire for fresh leadership and development of their young squad.

Key Points: Tom Cleverley Exits Watford After Disappointing Championship Season

  • - Cleverley led Watford for 60 games with 20 wins and 26 losses
2 min read

Watford FC sack Tom Cleverley after 14th place finish

Watford FC dismisses head coach Tom Cleverley following 14th place finish, ending his 60-game tenure with mixed results

"The time has come for a change and to build on what we believe is a young and talented squad - Gian Luca Nani"

Watford, May 6

Watford FC have confirmed the departure of head coach Tom Cleverley after the club failed to qualify for the promotion play-off sports in the Championship.

Cleverley took charge of the Hornets in March 2024, initially on an interim basis before getting the job permanently having steered Watford away from a possible relegation battle.

Watford were competing for promotion until the turn of the Calendar and were only able to conjure five wins in 2025 which saw them finish 14th in the Championship table.

"Watford FC confirms the departure of Tom Cleverley as Head Coach.

Cleverley stabilised performances at the end of the 2023/24 season in an interim position before his full-time appointment last summer.

"At one stage, the Golden Boys were part of the play-off picture but, unfortunately, performances and results drifted with just five wins in 2025.

"There will be no further club comment until a new appointment has been made," read the statement by the club.

The former Manchester United, Everton and Watford midfielder Cleverley was appointed following Valerien Ismael's departure. The 35-year-old was in charge for 60 games in total, winning 20 and losing 26.

"We thank Tom for his service - not just in his role as Head Coach but for everything he has given Watford as a player and member of staff.

"But the time has come for a change and to build on what we believe is a young and talented squad that will have benefitted from the experience of the Championship this season.

"It has been a privilege to work closely with Tom; to understand how he sees the game and his enthusiasm for everything here. He deserves to be recognised for this and I'm sure he will have a bright future in the game.

"Tom will always be part of Watford in recognition of all that he has achieved over so many years," said Sporting Director Gian Luca Nani

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Watford's management seems too impatient! Cleverley saved them from relegation last season and was working with a young squad. Indian football clubs could learn from this - we need to give coaches more time to build something. #PatienceIsKey
P
Priya M.
As an Indian football fan, I find it interesting how quickly English clubs make changes. 5 wins in 2025 isn't great, but Watford were never going to get promoted this season. Maybe they should look at managers from other leagues - our own ISL has some good coaches! 😊
A
Arjun S.
Watford's statement is classy though - they acknowledged Cleverley's contributions properly. Unlike how some Indian clubs treat their former players and coaches. Hope he gets another chance somewhere else. The Championship is a tough league!
N
Neha T.
Only 35 years old and already managing a Championship club! That's impressive by Indian standards where most coaches are much older. Maybe Watford should consider an Indian coach next? We have talent here too! 🇮🇳⚽
V
Vikram J.
The real problem is Watford's owners changing managers like we change clothes. 20 wins in 60 games isn't terrible for a first-time manager. Indian football fans know stability is important - look how long it took Stimac to get results with our national team!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50