Gerard Houllier has revealed he turned down other offers to become Aston Villa manager.
Former Liverpool boss Houllier was unveiled to the media on Friday afternoon after agreeing a three-year deal to succeed Martin O’Neill.
The 63-year-old said: “I’m pleased, I’m proud, I’m hungry, I’m healthy and I can’t wait to come.
“I had several offers but it looked as if Aston Villa like to do things as a team. I like to work as a team and I can feel that we are going to be in this together.
“That was the click – the chemistry, the vision, the value, the quality of the club, the fanbase – everything is here.
“It’s a new era, in terms of training, in terms of habits, in terms of everything. I’m fully aware that the competition is harsher between 2004 and now, but this is exciting.”
And Houllier has set his sights on ensuring there will be European football at Villa Park next season.
He added: “The team will probably improve in the long run and if we are spared by injuries and also manage to get one or two players at the right time, then why not?
“But the aim of course is Europe, places of honours and silverware.
“We know where we want to go, we know it will take time, that’s why I was passionate about getting back into management.
“I had offers from other countries but I here I feel it is going to be something gradual and interesting.”