NEWLY PROMOTED WATFORD are set to replace manager Slavisa Jokanovic despite the Serbian leading the Hornets to the Premier League, and are reported to be already in talks with former Atletico Madrid manager Quique Sanchez Flores.
Jokanovic became Watford’s fourth manager in under a year when he replaced Billy McKinlay in October, who had only taken charge of two matches. Jokanovic was only signed on a contract until the end of the season, and now looks likely to be replaced after being unable to agree new terms with the club.
There are some reports that Jokanovic requested a significant pay rise and was extremely disappointed by Watford’s offer to extend his stay at Vicarage Road. The Daily Mail claims Jokanovic asked for an extra £1m to be added to his salary. This was apparently two and a half times more than the offer Watford put on the table.
The club is now reportedly holding talks with former Real Madrid youth coach Flores. The 50-year-old has had spells as manager of Getafe, Valencia, Benfica and Atletico, where he won the Europa League with the likes of David De Gea and Sergio Aguero among his ranks.
In recent years, he has travelled to the Middle East to manage Al-Ahli and Al-Ain. It is believed he came close to becoming the new West Brom manager when Steve Clarke was sacked but lost out to Pepe Mel. His last role was back at Getafe but he resigned after a month, citing personal reasons.
But now it looks like Watford are ready to task him with the difficult job of keeping them in the Premier League next season.
Do you think Watford are right to replace Jokanovic or did he deserve a better contract for guiding them to promotion?