Rafael Benítez appointed as new manager of Napoli

Rafa Benitez has been announced as the new coach of Napoli on a two year contract.

The 53-year-old Spaniard met club president Aurelio de Laurentiis in London who confirmed via Twitter: 'Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. A man of great international experience. A leader.'

Napoli later released an official statement saying: 'Rafa Benitez is the new coach of Napoli. An agreement was signed [on Monday] in London. Napoli are happy to welcome a coach so prestigious to our own family. A welcome also to his collaborators.'

Napoli were impressed by Benitez after he battled against fan hate campaigns and speculation over Jose Mourinho's return to Stamford Bridge to win the Europa League trophy and take Chelsea to third place in the Premier League.

He was keen to stay in England but the lure of guiding Napoli in the Champions League has proved too strong.

Benitez replaces Walter Mazzarri who is leaving Napoli for Inter Milan, Benitez's former club.