The Albanian soccer federation hired Sylvinho on Monday as coach of the national team with the goal of qualifying for the 2024 European Championship, according to AP.

The 48-year-old Brazilian signed a contract that will take him through the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany.

“Football needs your soul and heart in there. That is why we are here,” Sylvinho said at a news conference after signing the 18-month contract.

Sylvinho replaces Italian Edoardo Reja, who led Albanians for three and a half years and 30 matches, winning half of them.

A former left back, Sylvinho played for Barcelona and Arsenal as well as briefly for Brazil’s national team. He ended his playing career with Manchester City in 2010.

Sylvinho has coached French club Lyon and Corinthians in Brazil. He was an assistant coach to Tite in Brazil and to Roberto Mancini at Inter Milan.

Source: Azerbaijan State News Agency