Tom Cleverley is set to remain as Watford manager next season despite recent speculation linking him with the vacant managerial position at Norwich City.
The 35-year-old has signed with Unique Sports Group, a change in representation that sparked concern among Hornets supporters that a departure could be imminent. However, it has been revealed that Cleverley is fully committed to leading Watford into the 2025/26 campaign.
Watford Looking to Build Around Cleverley
Graeme Bailey, reporting for EFL Analysis, confirmed that Cleverley has no intention of leaving Vicarage Road, despite interest from elsewhere. The club is understood to have full faith in his leadership and is planning to back him during the summer transfer window as they aim to mount a serious push for the play-offs next season.
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Sources close to the club suggest there is a strong working relationship between Cleverley and the players, and any approach from another club would need to be particularly compelling for him to consider a move.
Norwich City recently parted ways with head coach Johannes Hoff Thorup, fuelling rumours that Cleverley – a rising managerial prospect – could be on their radar. But Watford’s long-term strategy appears firmly centred around their current boss.
“I certainly feel like I’m a better coach now than I was when we were flying and in the play-off places,” said Cleverley after their final game of the season. “So if you look at strategy and process then for sure I am the right guy to take us forward.”
Despite a tough end to the Championship season – winning just one of their final eight fixtures – Cleverley has remained focused on development. He has spoken openly about how the challenges of recent months have helped refine his coaching philosophy and resilience as a leader.
Cleverley, who stepped into management with Watford earlier this season, remains a popular figure among fans and players alike, and is determined to use the upcoming summer to strengthen his squad and push for promotion in 2026.
Writer’s View
While Cleverley’s agent switch may have sparked transfer talk, it’s clear that his future lies at Vicarage Road – at least for now. His commitment to learning through adversity and staying grounded in his development bodes well for Watford, a club in need of stability and identity after a turbulent few seasons. If the board supports him as promised, next season could mark a real turning point under Cleverley’s leadership.
