Michael Laudrup says he is looking forward to the 'huge challenge' that awaits him at Swansea City after officially being unveiled as the club's new manager.
The Danish legend, who was capped 104 times by his country, is taking his first steps into English football following a stellar playing career that saw him play for the likes of Barcelona, Real Madrid and Ajax.
The Swans are soon to embark on their second season in the Premier League and after an 11th-place finish last term, many pundits will be wondering whether they can sustain the fine form they displayed in their debut campaign in the top flight.
But Laudrup, who takes over from Brendan Rodgers in the Liberty Stadium hotseat, revealed that he is excited about the challenge that awaits him in South Wales.
"I'm very happy to be here," he said. "It's a huge challenge for myself, but as soon as I heard that Swansea were interested I looked into what kind of football they played.
"They play the way that I like to play and the club's philosophy is very much the same as mine and that is one of the main reasons why I'm here.
"It's always a difficult decision to change country and embrace new cultures, but after thinking about it I made the decision and I'm sure I'll be very happy here."
During a glistening career that spanned two decades and five countries, Laudrup is renowned as one of the greatest players to have ever played the game.
After hanging up his boots following the 1998 World Cup, he took his first steps into coaching as assistant manager of the Denmark national team before taking charge at Brondby.
Laudrup's most recent managerial stint took him to Real Mallorca, while he enjoyed great success at fellow Spanish side Getafe as he led them to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Cup and the final of the Copa del Rey.
"I've seen a lot of Premier League games, but in recent times my focus has been on La Liga because I have lived and worked in Spain," said Laudrup.
"But all the people that I spoke to had positive things to say about Swansea City and that research was very important."
Laudrup confirmed that Erik Larsen would be joining him as assistant manager at the Liberty Stadium after working with him in his native country and in Spain.
However, the new boss ruled out making wholesale changes to both the playing and coaching staff at this early stage.
"At the beginning I would like to see how things work here, get my first impressions and then after a period of time, look to improve and make small changes," he said.
"But change for changings sake is not good. It doesn't make sense to bring in seven or eight players, but I will have a look at things and see where we can improve.
"The club had a fantastic season last year and did very well to finish 11th. The second season is always difficult at the highest level but we have to find new targets."