Cristian Giaretta: Watford sporting director leaves and is replaced by Gianluca Nani

11th Dec 2023 | Source: BBC

Cristiano Giaretta previously worked for Italian clubs Novara, Udinese and Ascoli and in Bulgaria for CSKA Sofia

Watford sporting director Cristiano Giaretta has left the club, to be replaced by Gianluca Nani.

Giaretta was appointed in the summer of 2020 and the club won promotion to the Premier League following his first season at Vicarage Road.

It was, however, only a one-season stay in the top flight.

Nani was previously Watford's technical director from 2012 to 2014 and also had a short spell as sporting director at Reading in 2018.

"I hope the supporters can see their colours in the Premier League again. Never give up - that's for sure," 55-year-old Giaretta told the club website.

A Watford statement added: "The Hornets thank Cristiano for his dedication and professionalism during his tenure, and have moved quickly to appoint a replacement who has great familiarity with both the club and the role itself."

His departure is the second major change behind the scenes at Vicarage Road in recent months, with technical director Ben Manga leaving the club in October.