Tom Cleverley has departed his position as Head Coach of Watford following a disappointing second-half of 2024-25 season.
Cleverley replaced Valerien Ismael in March 2024 and suffered just two defeats in his nine matches in charge at the end of 2023-24 season, during which he was appointed permanent manager for this season.
A positive first half of the season saw Cleverley’s Hornets sat sixth at the half-way mark of the Championship campaign but the team’s form suffered a massive slump with just five wins and 20 points amassed in total compared to 37 points before 2025 arrived.
The club consequently opted to part company with Cleverley following an internal end of season review which found that change was needed in order to fight for promotion next season.
Watford’s Sporting Director, Gian Luca Nani paid tribute to Cleverley for his efforts on and off the pitch, having scored 19 goals in 171 appearances as a player across two separate spells at Vicarage Road before he became manager.
“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.”
Cleverley’s final match in charge came in a 1-1 draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday on the final day of the season.
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