ROME- A.S Roma have announced former Sassuolo manager Eusebio Di Francesco as their new head coach for next season, following the departure of previous boss Luciano Spalletti, who is now in charge at Inter Milan.

 Di Francesco, who made 168 appearances for the Giallorossi from 1997-2001, has reportedly signed a two year contract, with the option of extending the deal for a third season.

 The new Roma boss is named after ‘Eusebio’ the 1960s Portuguese legend and is widely accepted as instilling a tough, attacking mentality in his teams.

 The Italian had great success in his six seasons at Sassuolo, playing an exciting brand of football which gained them promotion from Serie B in 2013 and then consequently qualified them for the group stages of the Europa League two years later.

 “I am extremely happy to return to Roma, to coach a club that has always meant a lot to me.  I am grateful to President Pallotta and all the directors for this opportunity. I will give everything I have to make sure this team gets the results it deserves,” said Di Francesco, speaking after his official appointment was announced.

 “It’s like coming home after many years. It’s an emotional moment,I have met many familiar faces who were at the club in my playing days, while new people greeted me with great affection too,” he added.

 Similarly,  Roma President Jim Pallotta was happy with the club’s decision surrounding Spalletti’s replacement.

 "When we sat down to discuss the ideal candidate for the role of Roma coach, wanted someone who could come in and get the very best out of our first team players and also help bring through some of the great young talent coming out of our academy," Pallotta said in a statement.

 "Our new sporting director Monchi singled out Eusebio Di Francesco and, with his style of play, we believe he's the right fit for Roma.”