BUCHAREST (AFP) - Romania's most famous footballer, Gheorghe Hagi, known as the 'Maradona of the Carpathians' during his 16-year international career, confirmed Monday he has signed a three-year contract to coach his former club Steaua Bucharest.

"I've signed for three years and I hope to succeed as coach of Steaua where I had some of my best years as a player 17 years ago," said 42-year-old Hagi, who takes over from Cosmin Olaroiu, who left for Saudi club Al Hilal.

Local press reported that his salary will be in the region of 400,000 euros (538,000 dollars) annually.

"My main aim will be to win the Romanian title," said Hagi, adding that he will also be targetting the Cup double as well as European success.

Steaua finished runners-up this season behind city rivals Dinamo Bucharest

Hagi arrived in the Bucharest team aged 18 years, and later played at Real Madrid, Brescia, Galatasaray and Barcelona.

He won the European Cup with Steaua in 1986.

A veteran of three World Cups, Hagi announced his arrival on the international scene with a debut goal against Northern Ireland in 1984, when Romania was still very much a part of the communist eastern bloc.

By the time the midfield maestro had hung up his boots in 2000, Hagi's magical left foot and vision had helped him become one of European football's most celebrated players.

He started his coaching career in 2001 with the Romanian national side then with Bursaspor, Galatasaray and Romanian side Poli Timisoara.