West Ham United have confirmed that they have appointed a director of football for the upcoming season.

59-year-old Mario Husillos has left his role as Malaga sporting director and will join up with the Hammers, having worked alongside manager Manuel Pellegrini before in the past.

The Argentine worked with Pellegrini during his time as manager at Malaga, with Husillos coaching the Malaga B side before moving into the sporting director role.

Speaking on the official West Ham website, Husillos outlined that the club’s ambition was a huge factor in his decision.

“I am very excited. West Ham United is a club with huge ambition. The challenge to help deliver that ambition is what really attracted me to the role.

“I know the manager well and know he wants to deliver an exciting brand of attacking football. It will be my job to supply him with the tools to do just that.

“I am very much looking forward to working with Manuel Pellegrini again. We had great success together at Malaga, reaching the Champions League, and he is someone that I have huge respect for.

“I have seen West Ham play many times before. The fans are very passionate and close to the team, and I hope we can give them a team to be proud of next season.”