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Galaxy hire former Boca Juniors manager Schelotto

ALEJANDRO PAGNI / AFP / Getty

The LA Galaxy appointed Guillermo Barros Schelotto as their new head coach on Wednesday - the latest in a series of moves to bring the five-time MLS Cup champions back to relevance.

Schelotto joins the club after three years as manager of Argentinian giants Boca Juniors.

"I am honored to be the head coach for the most decorated club in Major League Soccer," the 45-year-old said in a statement. "This is a tremendous opportunity for me and I am excited to get to work. The LA Galaxy have long been the standard in MLS and I am ready to push the club to new heights."

Schelotto has previous MLS experience as a player, which includes winning the MLS Cup and MVP award in 2008 as an attacking midfielder for the Columbus Crew.

The Galaxy began their revolution in December with the hiring of Dennis te Kloese, a former director of nations teams for the Mexican soccer federation, as their general manager. Te Kloese negotiated a new contract with star striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic before identifying Schelotto as the man to lead the way.

"After a comprehensive search, domestically and internationally, we believe Guillermo will be a landmark signing for this club," Te Kloese said. "Guillermo is a proven winner who has experience coaching, playing, and winning for big clubs. It is our hope that Guillermo's managing style and familiarity with MLS will bring trophies and championships to LA Galaxy fans and the city of Los Angeles."

Schelotto was reportedly in talks to replace countryman Tata Martino as Atlanta United head coach. The club instead appointed former Ajax boss Frank de Boer.

Schelotto will make his debut March 2 against the Chicago Fire.

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