There are five unemployed Championship managers that Watford could consider hiring.

As Scott Duxbury delivered his end-of-season message, there were clear indications that Watford may be preparing to adjust their recruitment approach ahead of the upcoming transfer window. His comments suggested a greater emphasis on bringing in players who already possess experience within the EFL Championship, hinting at a more grounded and pragmatic strategy moving forward.

Such a shift in thinking could also extend beyond the playing squad and into the dugout. With managerial stability often elusive at Vicarage Road, the club may once again find themselves evaluating potential candidates who not only understand the demands of the Championship but are currently without a club. A number of experienced head coaches fit that description, each offering a unique profile that could appeal to Watford as they consider their next move.

Below is a closer look at five out-of-work managers with Championship pedigree who could come into consideration.

Gerhard Struber: A Familiar Target With a Clear Football Identity

Gerhard Struber is no stranger to Watford’s radar. The Austrian coach was previously approached by the club back in 2020, highlighting that his work has long been admired by those behind the scenes. At the time, Struber had built a strong reputation during his spell with Barnsley, where he impressed with his energetic and tactically sharp approach in the Championship.

Following that period, Struber’s career path saw him move into the Red Bull football network. He first took charge of New York Red Bulls before later stepping up to RB Salzburg, further developing his philosophy centered on high pressing and intensity.

His next move took him to , where he enjoyed a promising spell in Germany’s second division. Struber guided the team to second place with just two matches remaining in the season before being unexpectedly dismissed. From there, he returned to English football with Bristol City.

However, his time at Ashton Gate did not fully meet expectations. A fairly average campaign came to an early conclusion in March, when he was replaced by Roy Hodgson. While results were not outstanding, subsequent structural changes at the club suggest that the issues extended beyond coaching alone.

Currently without a role, Struber offers a blend of Championship experience and a clearly defined tactical style. His preference for aggressive pressing and attacking football could appeal to Watford as they look to reshape their identity.

Marti Cifuentes: A Manager Seeking Redemption

Marti Cifuentes left Leicester in January (Image: Reuters)

Marti Cifuentes presents a more complicated case. His recent managerial record has seen a downturn, particularly following his spell with Leicester City, where he was unable to prevent their slide into relegation. That period has undoubtedly affected his standing, but it does not entirely erase the positive work he produced earlier in his career.

Before his time at Leicester, Cifuentes had impressed during his tenure at Queens Park Rangers. He managed to guide a struggling side away from the threat of relegation during the 2023/24 season, stabilizing the club at a critical moment. The following campaign saw further progress, with a solid mid-table finish that reinforced his reputation as a capable coach.

His departure from QPR came under unusual circumstances, as he entered discussions with West Bromwich Albion, only for the proposed move to fall through at the last moment. This unexpected turn of events left his career trajectory somewhat unsettled.

Given the context of Leicester’s struggles, it is difficult to place all the blame solely on Cifuentes. The challenges faced by the club were multifaceted, and his role in their decline should be viewed within that broader picture. Despite recent setbacks, he remains a manager with a track record of resilience and adaptability, qualities that could make him a realistic option for Watford.

Ruben Selles: A Talented Coach Looking to Rebuild

Ruben Selles is another name whose reputation has fluctuated significantly over the past year. Once widely regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in the game, his career has since taken a series of difficult turns.

Selles first gained attention during his interim spell at Southampton, where he showed promise despite being unable to prevent the club’s relegation from the Premier League. He then moved to Reading, a club facing severe off-field challenges.

At Reading, Selles worked under extremely difficult conditions, assembling a competitive team largely made up of young players and free transfers. Despite a six-point deduction, he guided the club to a respectable 17th-place finish. The following season, he improved further, leading them into the play-off positions.

His success at Reading earned him a move to Hull City in the Championship. While he managed to secure survival for the club, he was dismissed at the end of the campaign, a decision that raised eyebrows given the circumstances.

Since then, Selles has endured a challenging period, including a brief and unsuccessful stint at Sheffield United, where he lost all five of his opening matches, as well as a short-lived spell with Real Zaragoza.

Despite these setbacks, Selles’ earlier achievements suggest that he remains a coach with significant potential. A return to a mid-table Championship club like Watford could provide the stability he needs to rebuild his reputation.

Carlos Carvalhal: Experience Across Multiple Leagues

Former Sheffield Wednesday and Swanea boss Carlos Carvalhal (Image: Reuters)

Carlos Carvalhal brings a wealth of experience, having managed numerous clubs across Europe. While his career has been marked by relatively short tenures, he has accumulated a diverse range of experiences that could prove valuable.

In England, Carvalhal is perhaps best known for his time with Sheffield Wednesday. During his spell there, he led the team to the Championship play-off final in 2016, as well as the semi-finals in 2017. Although promotion ultimately eluded them, those achievements demonstrated his ability to build competitive sides.

His Sheffield Wednesday team featured notable players such as Fernando Forestieri and Daniel Pudil, both of whom had previously been associated with Watford.

Carvalhal later moved to Swansea City, where he was unable to prevent relegation from the Premier League. However, his subsequent work in Portugal with clubs such as Rio Ave and Braga brought renewed success and recognition.

With his extensive experience and tactical knowledge, Carvalhal could offer Watford a seasoned and adaptable option. The question remains whether he would be interested in returning to English football for another challenge.

Jon Dahl Tomasson: A Proven Performer in England

Jon Dahl Tomasson is available (Image: Reuters)

Jon Dahl Tomasson is another candidate who could attract serious consideration. The former striker enjoyed a distinguished playing career and has transitioned effectively into management.

During his time at Blackburn Rovers, Tomasson implemented a counter-attacking style of play that yielded positive results. He led the club to a seventh-place finish in the 2022/23 Championship season, narrowly missing out on a play-off spot.

Despite those achievements, internal issues at Blackburn led to his departure in February 2024. Nonetheless, his work at the club is still viewed positively, and he remains a respected figure within the game.

Tomasson’s managerial experience also extends to the international stage. He worked as part of the coaching setup for the Denmark national football team during their run to the semi-finals of Euro 2020. Additionally, he enjoyed domestic success with Malmö FF, winning two consecutive league titles.

His most recent role with the Sweden national football team did not go as planned, as their qualification hopes for the World Cup were in jeopardy before he was replaced by Graham Potter.

Even so, Tomasson’s overall body of work suggests he remains a capable and forward-thinking coach. A managerial vacancy at Watford could provide him with an opportunity to return to club football in England and continue building his reputation.

A Crucial Decision Ahead for Watford

As Watford look toward the future, the decision regarding their next manager will be critical. The club’s recent history has been characterized by frequent changes in leadership, and finding the right fit will be essential if they are to achieve stability and success.

Each of the managers discussed brings a different set of strengths and experiences. Whether it is Struber’s high-energy approach, Cifuentes’ resilience, Selles’ developmental focus, Carvalhal’s vast experience, or Tomasson’s tactical acumen, Watford have a range of options to consider.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on the direction the club wishes to take. With a potential shift in recruitment strategy already hinted at, the appointment of a manager who aligns with that vision will be crucial. As the summer approaches, the Hornets face an important crossroads that could shape their fortunes in the Championship for seasons to come.