Roberto De Zerbi is looking forward to returning to the Stade Velodrome after taking charge at Marseille.

The former Albion head coach has signed a three-year deal.

He faces a busy summer with OM looking to bounce back from a turbulent season which saw them miss out on European football.

De Zerbi saw his Seagulls side come from two down to draw 2-2 at Marseille in the Europa League before winning the home fixture by a Joao Pedro goal.

In a statement, De Zerbi said: “I’m delighted to be joining Olympique de Marseille, as I had a very strong desire to join the club.

“The history and prestige that surround OM, the passion and fervour of its supporters, and the seriousness and enthusiasm shown to me by Frank (McCourt), Pablo (Longoria) and Medhi (Benatia) were all decisive factors in my decision to embark on this exciting challenge.

“I can’t wait to sit on the bench at the Orange Velodrome, this time as OM coach, and help the club regain the position that Marseille deserves.”

Marseille went through three different permanent head coaches last erm, including De Zerbi’s compatriot Gennaro Gattuso, who took charge of both games against Albion.

Club president Longoria said: “We are very proud to welcome Roberto to Olympique de Marseille, a talented coach with a European reputation.

“As well as being enthusiastic about the idea of coaching OM from the outset, he has all the qualities required to succeed on our bench.

“His decision to join us sends out a strong signal about the club and the new sporting cycle we are embarking on.”

Marseille are facing a busy summer in the transfer market.

Their priorities include in goal, where they are believed to be keen on Ilian Meslier of Leeds.