Paris, Jan 3 (IANS): Argentine Mauricio Pochettino has been appointed as the new head coach of Paris-Saint Germain (PSG). He has signed a contract with the club until June 30, 2022, with an option for an extra year.

The 48-year-old has history at PSG where, as a centre-back and club captain, he made 95 appearances for the Rouge & Bleu between 2001 and 2003, scoring 6 goals.

Born in Murphy, Argentina, he also won 20 caps and scored 2 goals for his country, and his fighting spirit made him a favourite of the Parc des Princes crowd during his 30 months in Paris.

"I would like to thank the club's management for the trust they have placed in me. As you know, this club has always held a special place in my heart. I have wonderful memories, especially of the unique atmosphere of the Parc des Princes," said Pochettino after signing his contract.

After retiring from playing, Pochettino began his coaching career at Espanyol FC between 2009 and 2012, before developing his experience in England with a spell from 2013 to 2014 at Southampton and then at Tottenham Hotspur from 2014 until 2019. As Spurs manager, Pochettino showed a real talent for managing top-level players with his passion and his ambitious vision of football, taking the Lilywhites to their first ever Champions League final in the 2018/19 season.

"I return to the club today with a lot of ambition and humility, and am eager to work with some of the world's most talented players," said Pochettino.

"This team has fantastic potential and my staff and I will do everything we can to get the best for Paris Saint-Germain in all competitions. We will also do our utmost to give our team the combative and attacking playing identity that Parisian fans have always loved," he added.

Pochettino will take his first training session for the Rouge & Bleu on Sunday following the winter break.