Patrick Vieira has been confirmed as the new manager of Crystal Palace.
The 45-year-old – who is a legendary figure at Palace’s London rivals Arsenal from his nine years playing for the club from 1996-2005 – has signed a three-year deal at Selhurst Park.
It is his first job since he left French side Nice in December, while he started his managerial career at New York City FC, where he spent two-and-a-half years between 2016-18.
Vieira will hope for success at Palace, who have been without a manager since Roy Hodgson announced he would step down at the end of last season.
Speaking to the club’s official website he said: “I am really excited to have this opportunity to return to the Premier League, and manage this great football club, as we begin a new chapter together.
(Image: Getty Images)
“It is a project that is really appealing to me, having spoken a lot with the Chairman and Sporting Director about their ambition and plans for the whole club, including the Academy.
“The club has fantastic foundations in place after many years in the Premier League, and I hope we can make further improvements and continue to drive the club forward.
“I am also very excited to experience the atmosphere the club’s supporters make at Selhurst Park and away from home too, and I know just how important that can be for the team.”
Palace chairman Steve Parish added: “I’m delighted and excited that Patrick has agreed to join Crystal Palace as our manager following successfully learning his trade at the City Group, and experiencing positive managerial spells at New York City and then Nice, who he led to the Europa League.
“We have a lot to do to prepare in the coming weeks and I look forward to working closely with Patrick and Dougie in bringing in some new faces to help us all to a successful season.”
