Alberto Garrido announces departure from Watford coaching staff

Alberto Garrido has announced he is leaving Watford to pursue "new challenges" after two seasons on the coaching staff.

Garrido was hired from Real Madrid Castilla in 2024, joining Tom Cleverley's backroom team, and retained his position at the club under Paulo Pezzolano, Javi Gracia and Ed Still.

He was visible in the dugout on matchdays under Cleverley and Pezzolano, but was described by Still as an "individual coach" towards the end of last season.

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Working with players individually was the Spaniard's primary role, Mamadou Doumbia specifically celebrating with the outgoing coach after his header against Burnley last season.

Alessio Dionisi is in talks to succeed Still as head coach at Vicarage Road but won't have Garrido - who has posted about his departure on Instagram - in his team.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alberto Garrido (@a.garrido08)

Garrido said: "Two seasons at Vicarage Road come to an end.

"To the players, the staff, the fans and everyone who works at Watford - thank you. For your trust, for how you treated me, and for the respect you gave me from day one.

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"This club and its people will always have a special place in my heart. Thank you Watford. Once a Hornet, always a Hornet.

"Excited about the new challenges that are coming."

Kevin Keben and Luca Kjerrumgaard are among the first-team players to wish Garrido luck as he departs WD18.