The former Milan star will succeed Lippi, who resigned after guiding the Azzurri to their fourth World Cup title in history following a win over France in the tournament's final.

Donadoni started his playing career at Atalanta before moving to AC Milan, where he established himself as one of the best Italian midfielders.

The 43-year-old was part of Italy's squad that finished third in the 1990 World Cup and played also with his country in the 1994 final, where they lost to Brazil in the penalty shoot-out.

Donadoni coached third division side Lecco and then moved to Livorno, before making a disappointing switch to Genoa, where he lasted just three games as he was quickly sacked by the club's president.

He returned to Livorno in the 2004/2005 season but he was sacked during the last season despite leading his team to the sixth place in Serie A table.