Paulo Sousa will lead Maccabi Tel Aviv into next season's Champions League competition after he was unveiled as the new boss of the Ligat Ha’Al winners.

The 42-year-old former Portugal star signed a two-year contract in a meeting with the club’s general manager, Jordi Cryuff, who fulfilled his promise of bringing in a high-profile figure to replace Oscar Garcia.

Sousa said: "My vision for the team gives me great heart and motivation for the many challenges we will face."

"Maccabi is a club with a strong tradition, passionate support and I hope that with everyone working together, we can achieve success.

As a player, Sousa won 51 caps in midfield for Portugal, as well as spells with Juventus, Inter Milan and Borussia Dortmund. He has also managed at QPR, Swansea and Leicester.

Cruyff said: "We are certain Paulo can help Maccabi Tel Aviv progress in the path that began four years ago and take this club to a different level.

Maccabi’s owner Mitch Goldhar said: "Paulo embodies the qualities we strive for at Maccabi Tel Aviv - namely discipline, work ethic and respect."