Angola 's football authorities have confirmed that Manuel Jose is to become their new national coach.

	The 63-year-old Jose, currently in charge of Egyptian club Al Ahly, will take over from Mabi de Almeida who was sacked last month. Justino Fernandes, president of the Angolan Football Federation, made the announcement in Luanda on Wednesday.
Manuel Jose/BBC

It ends days of intense speculation following Jose's termination of his contract with the Cairo Red Devils.

Jose has signed a one-year contract and begins work with the Palancas Negras at the end of the month.

Fernandes told reporters: "Manuel Jose has a very big challenge ahead," with obvious reference to next year's African Nations Cup to be held in Angola .

Fernandes said the Portuguese coach will be given support by everyone involved in football in the country.

He said it was Angola 's intention to win the Nations Cup, despite a depressing run of recent results which included losses in friendly matches against Mali and Cape Verde , and a draw with Namibia .