MLS club New York City announces former Arsenal star Patrick Vieira appointed as team manager.

US top football division Major League Soccer (MLS) team New York City announced Monday the club named former French international and Arsenal star Patrick Vieira as new manager.

According to a statement on the club’s website, the 39-year-old former player signed a three-year deal.

Vieira will take the reigns January 1, 2016 as he has been coaching English Premier League side Manchester City’s reserve team since 2013.

“Patrick’s ability, vision and the respect in which he is held by everyone who works with him, speaks volumes for his character and capacity to succeed. I am excited to work with him and I know the energy he will bring to the role will have a hugely positive impact across the Club”, New York City chairman Tom Glick said.

Having made the captaincy of France National Team in mid-2000s, Vieira was part of “Les Bleus” (The Blues) who won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2000 titles.

During his 17-year-career Vieira played for Italy’s AC Milan, Juventus and Inter, English clubs Arsenal and Manchester City. Former French international retired from football at the end of the 2010-2011 football season.

Established in 2013, New York City has many experienced European football stars such as Frank Lampard, Andrea Pirlo and David Villa.

The US club parted ways with its ex-manager Jason Kreis last week.