Watford move to appoint Edward Still as new manager despite limited recent success and past Belgian coaching record at Vicarage Road

Watford are reportedly on the verge of appointing Edward Still as their latest managerial hire, a move that has raised eyebrows across the Championship.

Still, 35, is the older brother of former Southampton boss Will Still and has a relatively modest managerial record, having won just 24 of his 80 matches during stints in Belgium.

The Hornets have been searching for a new head coach ever since Javi Gracia stepped down in early February, just three months after returning for a second spell at Vicarage Road.

Edward Still is expected to become Watford’s third manager this season, following the departures of Paulo Pezzolano and Gracia, as the club seeks to stabilize a team sitting 11th in the Championship and only three points shy of the play-offs.

A Career in Belgium Before Watford

Edward Still’s managerial background has largely been in the Belgian Pro League, where he led Charleroi, Eupen, and Kortrijk.

His last role ended in September 2023, and despite the mixed results, he is considered a promising coach.

Earlier this season, he served as assistant to Besnik Hasi at Anderlecht and briefly took over as interim boss after Hasi was dismissed.

In his first game in charge, however, Anderlecht suffered a 2-0 defeat to Genk.

Still is also no stranger to working alongside family in football.

He collaborated with his younger brother Will at Lens, and their other brother, Nicolas, also played a part in the coaching setup.

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This family connection has fueled speculation that Edward’s appointment at Watford could have been influenced by the perceived potential in the Still coaching dynasty.

The Will Still Connection

Will Still, 33, was also linked with the Watford vacancy after being let go by Southampton in November following just 13 Championship games.

Ultimately, Edward is expected to secure the role ahead of his younger brother, though fans have noted the curious twist of a sibling following in another’s footsteps in such high-profile circumstances.

Some pundits have even pointed to Will’s struggles at St Mary’s being partially linked to Edward’s absence from the Southampton staff.

Interim Management and Recent Form

Since Gracia’s shock resignation, Watford has been temporarily led by former players Dan Gosling, Adrian Mariappa, and Charlie Daniels.

During this period, the club drew with Hull City and lost to Southampton, leaving the Hornets in mid-table limbo and adding pressure on the incoming permanent manager.

Gracia had resigned after a five-game winless streak, citing a loss of motivation and conviction in continuing with the team.

In a statement, he said, “I believe the most honest thing to do was not to continue in a project where I could no longer contribute with full conviction.”

He also expressed deep gratitude toward the club, highlighting his emotional connection to Watford.

What’s Next?

Edward Still will face an immediate challenge as he prepares for Watford’s upcoming trip to Preston North End.

The Hornets will hope that the Belgian coach can quickly adapt to English football, stabilize results, and guide the club toward a push for promotion.

With three managers already in a single season, the new appointment will need to inspire confidence in both the squad and fans alike.

Summary

Watford are set to appoint Edward Still as their new manager, making him the club’s third boss this season.

Still’s coaching career has largely been in Belgium, and he has limited experience in top-flight football, winning only 24 of 80 matches.

The appointment continues the family narrative, as he follows in the footsteps of his younger brother Will Still, formerly of Southampton.

Watford currently sit 11th in the Championship, and the new manager will be tasked with stabilizing the team and keeping their play-off hopes alive.