Watford is currently in talks with Alessio Dionisi regarding the head coach position following the departure of Ed Still. The Italian manager, who has experience in Serie A and Serie B with clubs like Sassuolo and Empoli, is among the candidates being considered by the club. Sporting director Gian Luca Nani and head of recruitment Andrea Papadia are leading the search for the 24th manager during the Pozzo era. Chairman Scott Duxbury has emphasized the need for a coach who has a proven track record of winning leagues and achieving promotions. Italian journalist Luca Cerchione first reported that Dionisi is set to sign a two-year contract after discussions held recently. Fabrizio Romano has also confirmed that Watford hopes to finalize the appointment within the week. Dionisi, 46, has a history of success, including guiding Empoli to the Serie B title in 2021. He took over at Sassuolo afterward, achieving respectable mid-table finishes before being dismissed in February 2024. Watford's previous talks with Danish manager Niels Frederiksen ended with him opting to stay at Lech Poznan. The club is looking to bounce back after a disappointing season that saw them finish poorly in the Championship. They will kick off their pre-season with friendlies against Boreham Wood and Barnet before returning to Vicarage Road for a match against Hansa Rostock. The Championship season is set to begin on August 14, with fixtures announced on June 25.