Garcia signs extended Roma deal

Coach Rudi Garcia has signed a lengthy contract extension at Roma, the club have confirmed.

The Frenchman led the club to second place in Serie A in the 2013-14 campaign, and automatic qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

Garcia’s previous deal was due to expire at the end of next season, but his new terms mean he is set to remain at the Stadio Olimpico until June 30, 2018.

Former Lille boss Garcia joined Roma last June and got off to a superb start, guiding the team to 10 consecutive victories at the beginning of the season.

Roma eventually finished 17 points behind Juventus, despite not tasting defeat in the league until a 3-0 reverse at the hands of Antonio Conte’s champions in January.

Nevertheless, Garcia oversaw considerable improvement and his commitment to Roma has been greeted with delight by club president James Pallotta.

“I am happy to announce that Rudi Garcia and Roma have reached an agreement for the extension of an additional three years of the existing contract,” Pallotta told the club’s official website.

“As I have said many times in the past, I knew it would be the right choice (for Garcia) to lead Rome for a long time.

“This extension is part of our plan to bring continuity and success of our project in its entirety. The ownership of Rome and its leadership have worked together to build a world-class team.

“This is another step to fulfil our long-term program. We are only at the beginning of our and Roma fans’ journey and we once again thank Rudi, his staff and all of Roma for a wonderful start to what I hope will be a great future for our fans worldwide.”