Conspiracy theorists amongst us could suggest what better way of ensuring premier league management, than fookin up the chances of one of "your" relegation rivals. Plan A? Worked.
https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/sep/29/marco-silva-watford-coach-sebastian-prodl
"Watford finished their last campaign in a lowly 17th place after a dramatic late-season slump, helpfully reducing expectations (though the Italian’s fate had already been sealed and discussions with Silva’s agent had begun before that rotten run)."
The article also has a player commenting on Silva's philosophy and methods, very similar to the noises made by players here.