(CNN) -- Barcelona has appointed Luis Enrique as the club's new manager just days after losing out on the La Liga title. Enrique, who has resigned from his role at Celta Vigo following a successful season in charge, returns to the club where he starred as a player between 1996 and 2004. The 44-year-old has signed a two-year deal and replaces Tata Martino, who left the club after just one season at the helm. In a statement, the club confirmed that Enrique was appointed following an endorsement from sporting director, Andoni Zubizarreta. Barcelona endured a disappointing season, failing to retain its league title and crashing out of the Champions League following a defeat by Atletico Madrid.
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Luis Enrique appointed new manager of Barcelona
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Enrique replaces Tata Martino at Camp Nou
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Former player a huge favorite at Catalan club
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Enjoyed a fine season in charge at Celta Vigo
@placeholder played 300 games for the club, scoring 109 goals and captained the side between 2002-2004 before retiring.