Fabio Cannavaro has been named as the manager of struggling Udinese until the end of the season.
The legendary defender will take over from Gabriele Cioffi who was sacked earlier today after just four wins from his 24 games in charge of the club with the Bianconeri losing 1-0 away to Hellas Verona at the weekend after Diego Coppola's stoppage-time winner.
That result means that Udinese are 17th in Serie A and in danger of relegation.
"There is no need to recall the on-field exploits of one of the greatest players in the history of Italian football," read an official statement from the Udine club.
"Cannavaro is a young and prepared coach of international stature who has already had the opportunity to prove his skills abroad as well.
"The club has identified his on-field and technical experience and unquestioned leadership as the right figure to lead the team to the goal of salvation."
Fabio Cannavaro's brother Paolo will also join the club as assistant coach.
The 50-year-old will oversee his first game as Udinese boss on Sunday as his team travel to face fourth-placed Bologna.
Benvenuto, Fabio Cannavaro!
— Udinese Calcio (@Udinese_1896) April 22, 2024
⚪️⚫️ #ForzaUdinese #AlèUdin #WelcomeCannavaro pic.twitter.com/uwTZtCuq99