MLS champions Atlanta United have appointed Frank De Boer as their new head coach.

The Dutchman is back in management for the first time since his short-lived spell in the Premier League at Crystal Palace at the start of last season. De Boer was fired by the Eagles in September last year after five games and 77 days in charge. Palace had lost all four of their Premier League matches without scoring a single goal during his time in charge.

De Boer was more successful during his time as Ajax manager, winning four Eredivisie titles with the Dutch club. He had a successful playing career with Ajax and Barcelona, and also won 112 caps for the Netherlands.

“Frank De Boer has a distinguished background, both as manager and player, and we’re ecstatic to welcome him to our club,” Atlanta president Darren Eales told the club’s website. “When we began our search, we were determined to find someone who fit all of our criteria. In addition to meeting our club’s core values, Frank’s philosophical views for how to play unequivocally aligns with ours.

“He also has a proven track record of developing youth players, with many of them going on to star for top European teams.”

Atlanta were looking for a new coach after Tata Martino decided not to renew his contract with the club at the end of the season. Martino went out on a high, winning the MLS title in just the club’s second season in the league.