SAITAMA -- J. League Division One side Urawa Reds on Thursday confirmed the appointment of Pita as their new manager, following the sudden resignation of Brazilian Tita earlier this week.

Pita was promoted from assistant coach, having joined Urawa at the beginning of last month. The 43-year-old Brazilian previously managed Brazilian powerhouses Sao Paulo and Santos in 1999-2001, two of the clubs that he used to play for, before coming to Kawasaki Frontale as assistant manager at the beginning of this season.

Pita also has some playing experience in Japan -- at Shonan Bellmare's predecessor, Fujita, in the Japan Soccer League in 1992 and for Nagoya Grampus Eight in 1993.

"It's been a month since I came here to Urawa but I know we have good players," Pita said. "I'd like to work on some aspects of the game that I've been thinking we should correct and make an aggressive attacking team. The team has the basics. We'll build it up game by game.

"I want our players to play to the full of their ability and do their best. If they can play in that kind of manner and play well, they can leave the pitch with pride after the game." Pita has already shifted into his new position and trained with his players ahead of the tough league matches coming their way.