Fabrizio Romano has reported on Twitter that Leeds United are in talks to bring Javi Gracia back to the Premier League, in a move that would see the Spaniard return to English football for the first time since his 20-month spell at Watford.
Gracia, 52, is currently out of work after last managing Al Sadd in Qatar, after replacing Barcelona manager Xavi in the hotseat. Clocking up 22 games as manager, he won 16 – boasting a win rate of 73%. But he has is yet to return to work.
Of course, Gracia’s name will be recognisable to most in England after spending more than 18 months in charge of Watford. He kept Watford up in 2018-19 and took them to the FA Cup final, but was sacked early in the 19-20 season.
A sacking deemed harsh at the time – but normal, given it was Watford. He also boasts stints at the likes of Malaga, Valencia, Osasuna and Russian side Rubin Kazan on his CV. Leeds are said to be in talks with him, and one other boss.
Romano: Leeds in talks to bring Gracia back to the Premier League
Gracia impressed during his stint at Watford. At a club that are incredibly trigger happy when it comes to managers, given they are owned by the Pozzo family, he remained in charge for more than 18 months. An impressive stint.
Decent spells at Valencia and and the Qatari Stars League title with Al-Sadd in 21-22 are also part of his CV. So, it looks on paper a potentially promising arrival at Elland Road if Leeds can get a deal over the line. It is unclear, how long for.
But, given the stature of Gracia, you would expect he is not simply taking the job on an interim basis. It could be that he remains in charge beyond the end of the season. Or at least, a clause is inserted in case he does keep us up.
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