The 2016-17 campaign delivered a tense, but ultimately successful, season of consolidation for Watford as The Hornets secured their Premier League status for the first time in consecutive seasons, finishing 17th. Under new Italian manager Walter Mazzarri, the team was anchored by talismanic captain Troy Deeney, whose 10 goals proved crucial in the battle for survival. The season featured memorable high points, including stunning home victories over both Manchester United and Arsenal, and safety was clinched with six games remaining, despite a turbulent end that saw the manager depart. It was a crucial year that solidified the club's status in the top flight.