Luis Garcia has been named new coach of RCD Espanyol.

Garcia replaces Diego Martinez after his dismissal on Monday.

He signs on until the end of the season with a one-year option. Garcia moves to the Primera from the RFEF Third Division, RSC Internacional, in the fifth tier of Spanish football.

The closest precedent, although not as strong, that was seen this season in terms of a jump in category was the hiring of Fran Justo by CD Lugo from CD Arenteiro (Segunda RFEF). The coach was sacked after nine games.

Luis García, 42, played for Espanyol between 2005 and 2011, had been on Espanyol's radar in the summer.