Paris St Germain have confirmed the appointment of former Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino as their new manager.

The Argentinian succeeds Thomas Tuchel, who was sacked by the Ligue 1 club in December despite leading the club to the Ligue 1 title and the Champions League final last season.

Pochettino, 48, had been out of the game since leaving Spurs in November 2019.

The appointment marks a return for Pochettino to one of his former clubs, having made 95 appearances as a player for the French outfit between 2001 and 2003.

He has signed a contract until the summer of 2022 with the option of a further year.

Pochettino, who has also managed Espanyol and Southampton, said: “I am really happy and honoured to become the new coach of Paris St Germain.

“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.

“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.”

PSG decided to look in a new direction after making a relatively modest start to the current campaign for a side that has won Ligue 1 in seven of the past eight years.

Pochettino takes over with the team presently third in the table, a point behind leaders Lyon and Lille.

PSG chairman and chief executive Nasser Al-Khelaifi said on the club’s official website: “The return of Mauricio fits perfectly with our ambitions and it will be another exciting chapter for the club and one I am positive the fans will enjoy.

“With the appointment of Mauricio Pochettino, Paris St Germain are committed to continue to build and move the club forward over the coming years.”