Watford midfielder Imrân Louza has completed a permanent transfer to Greek Super League club Panathinaikos. The 27-year-old Moroccan international ends a five-year association with the Hornets, the club confirmed on Friday.
This significant squad change comes as Watford sit 7th in the Championship table with four points from their opening two matches. Their recent form reads DW, with three goals scored and two conceded for a +1 goal difference. The Hornets are currently two points behind league leaders Millwall.
Imrân Louza joined Watford from French Ligue 1 side FC Nantes in June 2021. Over the next five seasons, he established himself as a key figure in the midfield. He made 141 appearances for the club across all competitions, finding the net 15 times in league play. His influence peaked during the 2024/25 campaign when he was voted Watford's Player of the Season by supporters. He followed that achievement by coming runner-up for the same award the following year. His leadership qualities were formally recognised during the 2025/26 season when he wore the captain's armband on multiple occasions.
The move represents a new challenge for the player at a club competing in European competition. For Watford, it concludes the summer transfer business for a major first-team asset as the window nears its close. The club's official website, Watford FC, broke the news of the departure. Managerial plans and the existing squad depth likely influenced the decision to sanction the sale. This allows for potential reinvestment as the team builds on a solid start to the season.
Louza's departure creates an opportunity in the centre of the park. The Hornets have begun the Championship season positively, taking four points from a possible six. Their next challenge is an away trip to face Swansea City on September 1st. Swansea currently sit 9th in the table, making it a key early-season fixture. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on the club's fixtures page.
The current squad list, available on the squad page, shows several players capable of filling the midfield role. The team's early defensive solidity, conceding just two goals, provides a platform to build from. Louza's 141 appearances and club award wins highlight the quality Watford must now replace.
The immediate focus shifts to the match against Swansea. Integrating any new signings or adjusting the tactical setup without Louza will be a priority for the coaching staff. The club's league standing and goal difference offer encouraging signs for the campaign ahead. Supporters can monitor the team's progress in the standings as the season develops. This transfer window move concludes a notable chapter for both the player and the club as Watford continues its push for promotion from the Championship.
