Serie A giants Inter Milan have confirmed the appointment of former AC Milan boss Leonardo, one day after Rafa Benitez was sacked.
Leonardo, who was installed as favourite to take over at Inter before Benitez was officially fired, will see Inter through to the end of their 2011/12 league campaign after signing a one-and-a-half-year deal.
The 41-year-old makes history as the first person to have held the reins on both sides of the San Siro, having guided AC Milan through their 2009-10 campaign.
Inter released a short statement welcoming Leonardo, who will start work with the struggling Italian and European champions on Wednesday.
"Everyone here at Internazionale is pleased to welcome Leonardo to the club," read a statement on the club's official website.
"The 41-year-old Brazilian coach will take charge of the European and World Champions as of 29 December, when the Nerazzurri begin training again in Appiano Gentile."
"Leonardo signed a contract this evening that will run until 30 June 2012."
"The club will make an announcement over the next few days regarding his official presentation."
"We wish Leonardo the very best of luck and are sure that with his class, experience and winning mentality the club and the team can achieve the results that everyone at Inter and all the Inter fans want to see."
Benitez was dismissed by Inter President Massimo Moratti on Thursday, just six months after replacing Jose Mourinho at the San Siro.
Benitez, who also departed Liverpool in similar circumstances, had led the proud Italian club to a disappointing seventh on the Serie A table, 13 points behind leaders AC Milan.
