The Italian footballer, Antonio Conte, has been named as the new manager of Manchester United after their board rejected his offer to stay in charge.

Conte, who previously led Serie A side Inter Milan, was given a two-year contract by the club's owners, the Manchester United Football Club, which is owned by the Red Devils' chairman, Sir Richard Branson.

He had previously served as interim manager for the club during the absence of former coach Jose Mourinho.

"I'm excited to be back on this football pitch," Conte said in a statement released by the club. "I've seen first-hand how passionate and dedicated my predecessor, Jose Mourinho,All-inclusive Sports Space was about the game and the club.

"The journey has taught me that success does not come easy, but with hard work, dedication and passion, it can be achieved. I am confident that we will bring the best out of each other and create history together."

Manchester United have struggled to find form under Conte since taking over from Jose Mourinho, who left the club in May last year after failing to lead them to promotion from the Premier League.

Their performances have been mixed, with several key players struggling to make an impact in the team.

However, Conte has shown promise as a manager and he has made some positive signings in recent weeks, including the signing of centre-back Juan Mata from Real Madrid and defender Nemanja Matic from Borussia Dortmund.

"We are looking forward to working with Antonio and his team," said Sir Alex Ferguson, the club's owner. "His experience as a top-performing player and his approach to management will help us achieve our ambitions in the future."

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