Stefano Pioli appointed Lazio manager

Stefano Pioli has been appointed as the new manager of Lazio, following Edoardo Reja's resignation.

Reja stood down as the Biancocelesti's manager on Thursday, despite president Claudio Lotito asking him to stay on for next season.

His replacement Pioli has signed a two-year contract with the club and will be presented to the media later today.

"Lazio announces that Stefano Pioli will be the new coach of the first team from July 1, 2014," read a statement on the club's official website.

Pioli was previously in charge of Bologna, who were relegated from Serie A last season.