Wigan Athletic have confirmed the appointment of Roberto Martinez as their new manager.
With a compensation package agreed with Martinez’s former club Swansea, the Spaniard has been freed to complete his return to the North West.
Martinez, who has signed a three-year deal, spent six years as a player with Wigan, between 1995 and 2001, and is delighted to be returning.
“I am delighted to be back at Wigan Athletic, as you know I had a great time here as a player and the club has always been close to my heart,” he told the club’s official website.
“I am looking forward to getting stuck in and taking on teams in the best league in the world.
“I cannot wait for my first game at the DW Stadium, it seems like a long time away but there is a lot of work to do before then.
“The club has done incredibly well over the past five years, firstly getting into the Premier League and staying there, last year not only staying there but pushing higher up the table. I want to carry on the good work Steve Bruce did here.”
Wigan chairman Dave Whelan insists Martinez was always his first choice to take the reins after predecessor Steve Bruce decided to accept Sunderland’s offer earlier this month.
“Roberto was always my number-one choice and I am over the moon to bring him back to the club. I have always liked Roberto and have always taken notice of how he is getting on,” he said.
“What he has achieved at Swansea, getting them promoted and almost reaching the play-offs is a remarkable achievement and shows to me he has the skills and quality we need to be a success here.
“I am sure everyone in the town of Wigan will be just as excited as me to welcome back Roberto.”
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