Ferrara won seven Italian titles and one Champions League with Juventus

Former Juventus defender Ciro Ferrara has been named as permanent manager of the Italian giants on a two-year deal.

The 42-year-old took caretaker charge of Juve after former Chelsea boss Claudio Ranieri was sacked in May.

Ferrara won his two games in charge as Juve finished second in Serie A to land an automatic Champions League place.

It will be a first management role for the ex-Italy international who won seven Italian titles and one Champions League as a player with the Bianconeri.

"He is a man linked to Juventus and to our story of success," said a club statement.

Ferrara, a former Juventus youth team manager, will step down from his role as an assistant to Italy coach Marcello Lippi.

I think Ferrara can be the Italian equivalent of Guardiola Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie

"He is a young coach, who has gained managerial experience in recent years within the club and has an international outlook thanks to his work with the world champions," the statement added.

Rivals AC Milan appointed rookie Brazilian Leonardo, 39, as manager on Monday while this season Barcelona won the Champions League and a Spanish double with 38-year-old former midfielder Pep Guardiola in charge.

And the Bianconeri hope Ferrara can lead the Turin club to success next season.

"I think Ferrara can be the Italian equivalent of Guardiola," said Italy and Juventus defender Nicola Legrottaglie.

"He is ready for this great job."

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