RIO DE JANEIRO, June 13 (Xinhua) -- Former Brazil coach Mano Menezes has been confirmed as Flamengo's new manager, the Rio de Janeiro club announced on Thursday.

The 51-year-old ended days of speculation by agreeing to an 18-month deal with the club for an undisclosed salary.

He replaces 1994 World Cup winner Jorginho, who was dismissed last week following the team's poor start to the Brazilian Serie A season.

"To be the manager of Flamengo is my new great challenge. It's an honor," Menezes wrote on Twitter.

It is Menezes' first managerial job since being sacked as Brazil coach in November last year.

Flamengo are currently 14th in the Brasileirao standings with five points from as many matches.