Everton confirmed the appointment of Rafa Benitez as their new manager on Wednesday night.

The Spaniard, 61, has had numerous meetings with Everton owner, Farhad Moshiri before the deal was finalized for him 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 being confirmed

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”