Official: Ogbonna joins Watford FC
Watford have secured the signing of former West Ham United defender Angelo Ogbonna on an initial one-year contract. SportsRation reports.
The 36-year-old Italian, who was a free agent after being released by West Ham, brings a wealth of experience to the Championship side.
Ogbonna made 17 appearances for the Hammers last season and played a part in their Europa Conference League triumph in 2023, coming off the bench in the final. His transfer to Watford marks his return to competitive football after his departure from West Ham.
The veteran defender originally joined West Ham from Italian giants Juventus in 2015 for a reported £10 million. During his time in the Premier League, Ogbonna made over 200 appearances, becoming a stalwart in the Hammers’ defense.
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Ogbonna joins a Watford team that has had an impressive start to the Championship season, winning all three of their league matches so far, as well as their EFL Cup first-round tie, under head coach Tom Cleverley. He becomes Watford’s eighth signing of the summer, as the club looks to strengthen its squad for a promotion push.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Ogbonna expressed his enthusiasm for the new challenge: “It is very important to bring in some experience, like with Moussa [Sissoko]. I have spoken with the manager a couple of times, so I know his style of play. I am here to try my best and to try to help the team.”
With Ogbonna’s arrival, Watford will be hoping his experience and leadership will contribute to their ambitions of returning to the Premier League.
