Former Japan manager Philippe Troussier signed a two-year contract with Olympique Marseille, he told the French Ligue 1 club's website on Saturday.
"I signed for two years, in accordance with French law. I have precise goals. I want to make the fans proud again," he was quoted as saying in an interview.
The 49-year-old arrived in Marseille on Saturday to sign a deal announced earlier this week by the club's staff.
He replaces Jose Anigo, who resigned after a poor run of results from the former European champions including two bitter losses against arch-rivals Paris St Germain.
Troussier was dubbed "the white witch doctor" during a long management career in Africa where he coached Ivory Coast, Nigeria, South Africa and Burkina Faso before taking over Japan in 1998.
He has little experience of coaching at club level but said it would not be a handicap.
"I have a 25-year career behind me and strong international experience. I learn quickly and I have a staff with me. I feel strong," he said.
Troussier, who has the reputation of being severe and ruthless, is bringing a couple of assistants with him.
"I'm delighted to be here after spending 15 years abroad. When Marseille called me I was excited by the prospect of joining this club.
"I'm glad to be given a chance to tackle such a challenge," he said.
Troussier, who was approached unsuccessfully by Marseille two years ago, said he was still hoping to take the troubled club to the Champions League next season.
"We are still seeking a Champions League berth. The team are only three points behind a European Cup place," he said.
Marseille, who host Nantes later on Saturday, are seventh in the Ligue 1 standings 14 points behind Olympique Lyon who beat AJ Auxerre 2-1 in Saturday's early game.
Marseille president Christophe Bouchet, who had close links with Anigo, has been under pressure from fans to step down and said on Thursday he would quit as soon as he has found someone to take over.