Capello, who lead the club to their first league title in four years last season, was inexplicably sacked by the Royal club, and former Getafe coach Schuster replaces the Italian.

"This is a very happy day for me and I would like to thank the club for giving this opportunity to a young coach," said the 47-year-old manager.

"Looking at the clubs I've coached before this is a great step up for me. I've always wanted to be in a place like this but in my view I think it has taken me too long to get here. I think I'm capable of doing a good job."

Getafe had a two-year spell with Spanish Primera Liga side Getafe, and the former Germany international managed to keep the team in good shape in the first division.

Schuster had to pay Getafe 480,000 Euros in order to terminate his contract and be able to sign a three-year-deal with the Spanish champions.

"I had to pay the buy-out clause but I've never had so many friends ring me up to help me pay," said Schuster.