Fiorentina appoint former captain Stefano Pioli as new manager

Fiorentina have confirmed the appointment of former Lazio and Inter Milan head coach Stefano Pioli as their new manager.

The 51-year-old was dismissed by the Nerazzurri three games before the end of the Serie A season, in which the club finished seventh and missed out on Europe.

Pioli spent six seasons at Fiorentina as a player and returns with the club hoping to take advantage of the extra Champions League place on offer to Italian top-flight clubs next season.

A statement on the official Viola website read: "ACF Fiorentina announces that it has reached an agreement with Stefano Pioli, who will be entrusted with the technical guidance of the first team.

"Stefano Pioli, as a player, wore the Viola shirt on 156 occasions between 1989 and 1995, also wearing the captain's armband.

"The new Gigliati boss has signed a contract which will tie him to his new club for two years with the option of a third.

"The owners, the directors and everyone at Fiorentina wish the Coach the greatest satisfaction, and offer him a huge 'good luck' for his new job. Welcome back, Stefano."

Pioli has also been manager at Italian clubs Salernitana, Modena, Parma, Grosseto, Piacenza, Sassuolo, Chievo, Palermo and Bologna.