Ex-Leicester boss Ranieri returns to Cagliari

Claudio Ranieri has been unveiled as Cagliari's new manager, with the former Leicester City manager returning to his former club for a second stint.

The 71-year-old was previously in charge of the Serie B side between 1988 and 1991, guiding them from third to first tier with consecutive promotions.

Ranieri, who was let go by Watford in January after just three months in charge, reunites with his old team three decades after his previous stint with the team in the bottom half of the second tier.

He succeeds Fabio Liverani, who was sacked after a 2-1 defeat at Palermo last week, and will take charge on January 1 with a contract that runs until June 2025.

"Cagliari is pleased to announce that it has reached an agreement with Claudio Ranieri who will take over as technical director of the first team," read a club statement.

"Now back to Rossoblu, where it all began, to write a new chapter in history. Welcome Sir, it's nice to kiss you again!"

Ranieri, best known for Leicester's stunning Premier League success, has only coached more games for Chelsea and Fiorentina than he has Cagliari, where he remains a cherished figure.