Ferrara relishing Sampdoria chance

Ferrara left his position as the boss of Italy's Under-21 team to return to club management.

"I would like to thank the club for the great opportunity handed to me," Ferrara said in a press conference.

"I don't think there could have been a better solution for me professionally and personally.

"I have spent two splendid years working for the [Italian Football] federation and I thank them for allowing me to join Sampdoria.

"This experience has given me so much. I have regained the enthusiasm, motivation that pushed me to come to Sampdoria.

"I accepted Sampdoria's offer because this is a serious club and I was attracted by their project. I am very happy.

"I hope I can achieve the aims set by the club."

The 45-year-old Ferrara replaced Giuseppe Iachini, who recently led the Genoa outfit to promotion to Italy's top flight via the play-offs.

"Our aim this season is to remain in Serie A without major scares," the former Juventus tactician said.

"I will need time to get to know my players.

"As for the transfer market, I think this year will be more difficult than in the past."

Ferrara, who signed a two-year contract with the Partenopei outfit, will coach a club for the first time since a spell at Juventus in the 2009-10 campaign.

Sampdoria begins pre-season training on July 15 in Bardonecchia, Turin.