Watford Move Closer To Alessio Dionisi Appointment
Watford’s expected appointment of Alessio Dionisi has moved a step closer after Empoli announced the termination of his contract, according to the Watford Observer.
Dionisi had been dismissed by Empoli in March but remained under contract for another 12 months, having signed his deal in October 2024. Negotiating his release was understood to be the final obstacle before he could formally take over at Vicarage Road.
Empoli have also confirmed the mutual termination of contracts for staff members Luca Vigiani, Paolo Cozzi and Fabio Spighi. Vigiani previously worked at Watford as part of Walter Mazzarri’s coaching team during the 2016/17 season and is expected to be among the staff joining Dionisi.
The 46-year-old won Serie B with Empoli in 2020/21 before moving to Sassuolo, where he replaced Roberto De Zerbi. He guided them to 11th and 13th in Serie A across his two complete seasons, before leaving in February 2024 during a relegation battle.
Watford’s move for Dionisi is said to have been driven by owner Gino Pozzo, sporting director Gian Luca Nani and head of recruitment Andrea Papadia. Chairman Scott Duxbury had previously outlined the need for a coach with promotion experience, and Dionisi’s Serie B title-winning record appears to fit that profile.
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