Despite still being in danger of finishing in the bottom half of the table, there is no denying that Javi Gracia has taken Watford forward this season, notably guiding them to an FA Cup final against Manchester City.
With that still to play, the Hornets could still qualify for European football if they manage to overcome Pep Guardiola’s men, which on top of a trophy, will add extra motivation against a team already qualified for the Champions League.
However, there are two clubs in Spain who wouldn’t mind putting an end to this growing love story between the Spanish manager and Watford: Real Betis and Sevilla.
According to AS, the two clubs are interested in having Gracia as their manager next season, but an expensive obstacle stands in their way.
Appointed in January 2018, the 49-year-old is contracted at Vicarage Road until 2023, a deal that is said to include a ‘important’ release clause that would have to be negotiated with Watford.
Monchi, back at Sevilla, is said to have ‘always valued’ Gracia, while Betis have included him in a list that also has Alaves manager Abelardo on it.
It doesn’t sound like Watford fans need to be too worried about this.
At least, not yet.
