Blanc takes Juventus presidency today

Jean-Claude Blanc is officially confirmed as Juventus president today.

Blanc replaces Giovanni Cobolli Gigli, who chose to step down last month, and vacates the general manager's post at Juve.

Juve's chief backer John Elkann said: "Why Blanc? We chose him is a natural evolution after three years of Giovanni Cobolli, someone who I respect very much and did very well.

"Among his duties was also to include Blanc in the Italian way of football. And today, Blanc is ready to travel alone."

Elkann added: "It was important to define clearly who was in command and Blanc has been shown to do so. Will we continue to invest in the club? Yes, we will continue to invest in the team and stadium, which in 2011 will be a reality."