Fonseca to become new Roma head coach

The 46-year-old has agreed to take the reins at the Giallorossi ahead of the start of the new season, on an initial two-year contract.

An optional third year could extend the deal until the summer of 2022.

“We are delighted to welcome Paulo Fonseca to the club,” said AS Roma president Jim Pallotta.

“Paulo is a young and ambitious coach with international experience, a winning mentality and a reputation for bold, attacking football that will excite our fans.

“From the very first conversations we had with him, he made it very clear he wanted to come to Roma and was excited about the challenge of working with our players and putting out a team that the fans can be proud of.”

Fonseca, a Portuguese national born in Mozambique, joins from Shakhtar Donetsk - where he won the league and cup double in all three seasons with the Ukrainian club.

He also won the Ukrainian Super Cup in 2017.

He had previously built up a wealth of experience in Portuguese football, having enjoyed spells at clubs including Pacos Ferreira, Braga and Porto.

“I am very pleased to be appointed the head coach of AS Roma,” Fonseca said

“I want to thank the club’s management for the opportunity they have given me. I am excited and motivated by the task ahead of us.

“I cannot wait to move to Rome, meet our fans and get started. Together, I believe we can create something special.”

A central defender during his playing days, Fonseca spent his whole professional career in Portugal - making over 100 top-flight appearances.

Since starting his coaching career in 2005, his honours also include the Portuguese Cup (with Braga in 2016) and Portuguese Super Cup (with Porto in 2013).