West Bromwich Albion have appointed Pepe Mel as their new manager.
The 50-year old Spaniard has replaced Steve Clarke, who departed on December 14, after the Baggies conducted a lengthy search.
Former Tenerife, Getafe, Alaves, Corinthians, Rayo Vallecano and Real Betis boss Mel has now taken the reins at The Hawthorns on an 18-month deal.
"I'm delighted to welcome Pepe to the club," sporting and technical director Richard Garlick told the club's official website.
"His appointment concludes an extensive recruitment process during which we have cast the net far and wide to identify the most suitable candidate to take the club forward.
"Pepe was a strong contender from the outset due to his impressive achievements and has emerged as our number one candidate.
"He is a forward thinking coach whose teams are renowned for playing an attractive and positive style of football."
Mel steps in to relieve caretaker boss Keith Downing who will remain as the Baggies' assistant head coach.
