OFFICIAL: Everton announce ex-Liverpool coach Benitez as new boss

Everton have confirmed the appointment of Rafa Benitez as their new manager.

It is a historic appointment by Farhad Moshiri, Everton's major shareholder, as Benitez becomes the first man to have managed both Liverpool and Everton since William Edward Barclay in the 1890s.

The Spaniard, 61, has had numerous meetings with Moshiri, including one in Italy last week, and has now finalised a deal to become Carlo Ancelotti's successor.

Benitez will arrive at the club's Finch Farm training base to commence work with the Everton squad on July 5.

First team assistant manager Duncan Ferguson and goalkeeping coach Alan Kelly will stay on at the club with the remainder of Benitez's backroom staff to be confirmed.

Moshiri said: 'Rafa impressed us greatly with his knowledge and experience but, above all, the passion and hunger he showed to join our Club.

'We are appointing Rafa because we believe he will bring success to our Club and to Evertonians. To put it simply - we need to be competing at the top-end of the league and to be winning trophies.

'Rafa is a proven winner with huge experience in coaching internationally and we have secured the best man to achieve that for us.'

Benitez said: 'I am delighted to be joining Everton. Throughout this process I have been greatly impressed by the ambition shown by the senior representatives at the Club and their desire to bring success to this historic Club.

'I believe this is a Club that is going places. I'm determined to play a big part in helping this great Club achieve its ambitions.'

Everton chairman Bill Kenwright said: 'Rafa Benitez is joining Everton Football Club at an exciting time. On behalf of the Board of Directors I wish him well in achieving success for our football club - success our supporters long for and deserve.'

Benitez, a manager who has won the Champions League and the Europa League, has been working in the background since he first spoke to the Iranian billionaire three weeks ago.

He will be joined by his long-time ally, Paco de Miguel, who will become Everton's fitness coach.

Ferguson worked alongside Ancelotti and was keen to be considered for the role of permanent manager, but instead Benitez becomes Moshiri's fifth appointment in as many years.

It is a decision that will divide fans — there have already been negative banners — and not receive unanimous backing within the club.

Moshiri has taken charge of the recruitment process ahead of director of football Marcel Brands.

Benitez, for his part, is simply eager to get down to work.