The former Socceroos mentor joins the City Football Group, signaling a return to club coaching for the first time since 2013.

The multi-year deal and stability of being part of the leading football conglomerate was enough to stave off a move to Europe which has long been a goal of Postecoglou.

The three-time Japanese champions are considered a giant of Japanese football despite not claiming a title since 2004.

Manchester-based Brian Marwood, the managing director of global football at City Football Group, said he was confident Postecoglou was the man to take Yokohama to the next level. 

“We were very pleased to work with the Marinos in appointing Ange. We are excited about what he will bring to the club and think he is the right person to continue the approach we have been taking in recent years and add a further dimension to our play,” Marwood said.

Postecoglou, who walked away from the Socceroos after leading the team to the World Cup, said he was looking forward to returning to club land.

“I am excited to be moving to Japan and returning to club football. Coaching YFM will be a great challenge and I am very much looking forward to working with the club’s players, and young players in particular, to achieve success,’’ Postecoglou said.

Postecoglou reportedly agreed to terms with Yokohama a fortnight ago in Melbourne with the club which is part of the Manchester City football group that also owns Melbourne City.

The 52-year-old is expected to shadow Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in January before heading to Japan for the pre-season.