Valencia have appointed Javier Aguirre as head coach on a contract until 30 June 2027, with an automatic extension to 2028 if the club qualifies for the Europa League through the league this season.
Aguirre, 67, takes over a side in the relegation zone with four points from seven games, the worst start in the club's history at this stage of a season, and will be presented officially on Monday 28 September after arriving in the city on Thursday.
Sporting director Braulio Vázquez led the process, having ruled out Ernesto Valverde, who chose to continue his sabbatical, and settled on Aguirre largely because of his extensive experience in Spanish football.
The Mexican has previously managed six LaLiga clubs, Osasuna, Atlético Madrid, Real Zaragoza, Espanyol, Leganés and Mallorca, and led Mexico at this summer's World Cup before leaving that post. He arrives with two trusted assistants, Toni Amor as his number two and Pol Lorente as fitness coach, both regular collaborators from his recent spells in club and international football.
The contract length was one of the main sticking points in negotiations, with the club wanting flexibility at the end of the season and Aguirre seeking more stability for his project and his staff.
Speaking at Mexico City airport before flying to Spain, Aguirre explained what tipped the balance in Valencia's favour after turning down four other offers, including one from Mexico.
He stated: "I was talking about it with Silvia [his wife]. We were in limbo between quitting for good or carrying on. We had turned down four job offers from different countries, including Mexico, but in the end we decided on this one because I had spent many years in Spain, we already had roots there, my children studied there and I spent 15 seasons there. We said: it's going to be a good way to round off the career, and the life."
He struck an optimistic tone about the size of the task awaiting him.
"It's a hugely important team, a historic one. I'll try to close out this stage well and do it properly.
"I think it's an opportunity that comes to me at a good time. Nothing is ever guaranteed, but there are 31 games left, more than 90 points. There are plenty of reasons to be optimistic."
On potential reinforcements, Aguirre said it was too early to commit to anything before speaking with his sporting director.
"I'm going to sit down with Braulio, we'll see what the team needs, what the budget situation is and what the market looks like, and we'll make decisions. I can't say anything yet because I'm coming into this completely fresh."
The international break gives Aguirre several weeks to work with his new squad before his competitive debut, and Valencia are exploring the possibility of arranging a friendly for the end of next week to aid his preparations.