US Città di Palermo have brought in Stefano Pioli to replace coach Delio Rossi.

Pioli, 45, has signed a two-year contract with an option for a further 12 months. The Rosanero confirmed yesterday that they would not take the option to extend Rossi's contract, despite the 50-year-old leading the Sicilian club to the Coppa Italia final – which they lost 3-1 to FC Internazionale Milano on Sunday – to earn qualification to the UEFA Europa League.

Former defender Pioli, who won a Scudetto and a European Champion Clubs' Cup during his playing career at Juventus, left AC Chievo Verona at the end of the season, after helping the Clivensi retain their Serie A status. He has also been in charge of US Sassuolo Calcio, Parma FC and Piacenza Calcio.