[D-Kin]

Stefano Colantuono has completed his switch from Atalanta to become the new Palermo Coach, the club has confirmed.

The former Orobici boss had recently extended his contract with the Bergamaschi until 2009, but has now left to head south to Sicily.

Rosanero President Maurizio Zamparini announced last week that the tactician had agreed to join the Rosanero as Francesco Guidolin’s replacement and agreement has now been made official.

“Colantuono is the new Coach of Palermo’s first team. The 44-year-old Roman tactician has signed a two-year contract with the Rosanero,” read an official statement on the club’s website.

“Colantuono will be officially unveiled next Monday, June 11, at the Stadio Renzo Barbera,” announced the statement.

The boss started his coaching career in 2001 with Sambenedettese, before joining Catania and Perugia, leading the latter to the play-offs for Serie A promotion in 2005 before losing out to Torino.

He signed for Atalanta that same year, guiding the Bergamaschi to a clear Serie B win and confirming his qualities with this year’s eighth place in Serie A.

That would have allowed the Orobici to take part in the Intertoto Cup, but UEFA refused to give the Stadio Atleti Azzurri d’Italia a European licence.

Colantuono’s frustration at such restrictions on his team’s progress is thought to have been one of the major factors behind his decision to leave the Lombardy outfit.

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