"We are delighted that Kolo has become the new manager of Wigan Athletic Football Club, and the Board are pleased that he is the man to take us forward." Malachy Brannigan, Chief Executive of Wigan, told the club's official wesbite.

"From the earliest of conversations we had with Kolo, it was evident to us that he had instantly bought into the values of the Club - with his enthusiasm, knowledge, and immense desire to work and be part of Wigan Athletic shining throughout the process. Kolo is a manager who wants to play a positive brand of football and will strive every day to make the Club stronger." Brannigan added.

The 41-year-old will start his managerial career against Millwall after the World Cup break.

“I am sure that all Latics supporters will get behind the appointment of Kolo Touré, give their backing to the staff and the players, as the Football Club begins a new, exciting era - starting at Millwall on December 10th.” he concluded.

Toure signed a three-and-a-half-year contract with Wigan coming from Leicester City where he was part of Brendan Rodgers' coaching staff.

"I would like to thank all of the fans, players and staff of Leicester City Football Club, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, Susan Whelan, Jon Rudkin, and of course Brendan Rodgers for making me feel so welcome for so many years. The experiences that I have amassed under Brendan Rodgers have been invaluable and I’m sure they will help me in this next chapter of my career." Toure said.

"I am extremely proud to be named Manager of Wigan Athletic. Wigan Athletic is a big club with hugely passionate fans. Together, we can continue to make the right steps forward. I’m excited to work with this talented group of players and staff, and immensely look forward to my time ahead." Toure added

The former Ivorian defender, whose career included spells at Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool, had several experiences in coaching since hanging his boots in August 2017.

Toure worked as an assistant coach at scottish side Celtic 2017-2019 and Leicester City 2019-to present.

He also worked as assistant coach with Ivory Coast in 2018. 

(For more sports news and updates, follow Ahram Online Sports on Twitter at @AO_Sports and on Facebook at AhramOnlineSports.)