Former Barcelona defender Eric Abidal has been announced as the first team technical secretary at the club.

The ex-French international will replace Robert Fernández whose contract won’t be renewed after it runs out on June 30.

According to the Spanish La Liga and Spanish Copa Del Rey champions, the official presentation to usher in the regime of Eric Abidal as first team technical secretary will be held on Monday July 18.

Eric Abidal made 125 league appearances for the Blaugrana over a six-year stint at the club in addition to making 67 caps in the colours of the French national team.