Next Watford Manager: Ex QPR boss Marti Cifuentes releases statement after Leicester City sacking

Ex QPR head coach Marti Cifuentes has released a statement following his sacking from Leicester City amid reports that he could return to the outskirts of the capital to take up the vacancy at Watford.

The 43-year-old was given his marching orders at the King Power Stadium after a 2-1 home defeat to lowly Oxford United left the Foxes 14th in the Championship and six points off the play-off places. Cifuentes had been tasked with taking Leicester City straight back into the Premier League following relegation last season.

The Catalan head coach had left Loftus Road under a cloud having been placed on gardening leave following reports of talks with West Brom over a change in job. Cifuentes had largely impressed at QPR until that point, in what was his first job in English football.

Marti Cifuentes named as early ‘favourite’ for Watford job

Cifuentes eventually left by mutual agreement in July and was replaced by Julien Stephan. Now, the manager could make a move back closer to London as he emerges as a candidate for the vacant Watford job.

Watford confirmed the resignation of head coach Javi Gracia last weekend after a 2-0 home defeat to Swansea City. A statement shared by the club read: “The club is sad and disappointed to confirm the resignation of Javi Gracia as Head Coach.

“We retain the belief Javi was the right man to lead the club towards its push for promotion, but Javi felt he no longer had the motivation and was not the right man to continue coaching this exciting group of young players. We respect his decision and accept his wish to leave Vicarage Road with immediate effect.”

Former Southampton manager Will Still is an early frontrunner following his dismissal from St Mary’s Stadium in November. Cifuentes is also said to be a ‘favourite’ for the job.

Ex QPR coach reflects on Leicester City sacking

The former QPR man has now spoken out for the first time since leaving Leicester City. In a statement shared on social media, he said: “This was obviously not the way we wished for our time at Leicester City to conclude. From the moment me and my staff arrived during the pre-season period we gave everything to try and help the club in building a fresh culture and set new standards during a challenging period.

“I would like to thank Khun Top and the board for this opportunity. I value the relationships that we developed with players and staff during our time together and the work we did, including collaborating to progress the development of some of the club’s talented youngsters in the academy.

“To the fans, I always personally felt the passion that you expressed towards your club. I was grateful for the devotion so many of you showed in following us throughout the season around the country, no matter the conditions. I wish everyone nothing but the best for what lies ahead in the future for your club.”

In other news, 'Go Well': Neil Warnock shares heartfelt message as ex QPR and Cardiff City star secures transfer.