AS Roma is delighted to confirm the appointment of Ramon Rodriguez Verdejo, more commonly known as Monchi, as the club’s new sporting director.

The Spaniard - who will start work immediately - has signed a four-year contract, with an option for a fifth year, with the Giallorossi.

Monchi spent the last 17 years as sporting director at Spanish club Sevilla, the club he also represented as a player, where he helped them win nine major honours during an unprecedented spell of success.

“On behalf of myself and the entire AS Roma team, we welcome Monchi to our family and look forward to a long and fruitful relationship as we begin an exciting new era at the club,” AS Roma president Jim Pallotta said.

“I couldn’t be happier with this appointment as Monchi is widely regarded as one of the best minds in world football.”

Monchi, 48, spent his entire professional playing career with Sevilla, the goalkeeper emerging through the club’s youth system before going on to become a member of the first-team squad from 1990-1999.

After retiring as a player he was subsequently appointed to the club’s management staff in 2000, becoming sporting director soon after.

Over the next 17 years the club would go on to win the Europa League (previously known as the UEFA Cup) a record five times, the Copa del Rey twice and both the Spanish Supercopa and European Super Cup once.

“I would like to thank Roma president Jim Pallotta and the club’s executive team for giving me this opportunity,” said Monchi.

“This is an exciting project and I look forward to serving the supporters, staff and players at this iconic club for many years to come.”