Valerien Ismael Signs New Contract with Watford: A Positive Move for the Club
Watford Football Club has announced that head coach Valerien Ismael has agreed to a new and improved contract. This news comes as a surprise to many, considering the club’s reputation for frequently sacking head coaches and their current position in the Championship table. However, Watford owner Gino Pozzo believes that Ismael is the right man for the job and is confident in his abilities.
The Athletic first reported last month that Ismael was engaged in talks with the club regarding an extended deal, which would include enhanced terms and clauses. Now, it has been confirmed that both parties have reached an agreement, highlighting the club’s commitment to their head coach.
Sporting director Cristiano Giaretta expressed his satisfaction with the contract extension, stating, “The owner, the board, and all of the senior management team have enjoyed getting to know and understanding Valerien and his methods. It’s true we haven’t achieved the points we would like yet, but it’s the work and progress we can see that gives us great confidence.”
Giaretta also emphasized the positive atmosphere within the club, stating, “It’s like others have said this season; you can feel and sense that we are changing here and there is a positive atmosphere everywhere. We have told the first-team players and staff who have reacted positively, so now we all must focus on our work – the match at Sunderland tomorrow night.”
The decision to extend Ismael’s contract may raise eyebrows due to Watford’s current position in the Championship table. Going into the latest round of fixtures, they are 20th in the table, just one point and two places above the relegation zone. However, owner Gino Pozzo explained his reasoning for appointing Ismael at a fans event in June, stating, “(Ismael) was the one who ticked all the boxes. This coach has experience at this level. We believe it’s a much stronger appointment. We wanted to make sure that the approach to training and discipline was to a certain standard.”
Despite recent defeats to Middlesbrough and Leeds United, Watford chairman/CEO Scott Duxbury remains optimistic about the team’s future. He believes that patience is key and that the club has plenty of time to achieve a successful season. Duxbury stated, “An early test of patience – for everyone – is entirely healthy, and I suspect will breed greater trust and collaboration as time passes. Working hard collectively, regardless of your role at the club or connection to it, is very likely to bring good times over the longer term, so let’s continue to show real solidarity with our coach and the players.”
Ismael’s contract extension signifies Watford’s commitment to stability and long-term success. Despite their current struggles, the club believes in Ismael’s methods and is confident that he can lead them to better results in the future. This decision also reflects the club’s desire to break away from their reputation of frequently changing head coaches.
Watford fans will be hoping that Ismael’s extended contract brings about positive changes on the pitch. With the support of the club’s ownership and management, Ismael will have the opportunity to implement his strategies and build a team capable of achieving success in the Championship.
In conclusion, Valerien Ismael’s new contract with Watford is a significant move for the club. It demonstrates their commitment to stability and their belief in Ismael’s abilities as a head coach. Despite their current position in the Championship table, Watford remains optimistic about the future and is confident that Ismael can lead them to better results. Only time will tell if this decision proves to be fruitful, but for now, Watford fans can look forward to a period of stability and continuity under Ismael’s leadership.