The 48-year-old replaces Laszlo Boloni, who was sacked by Lens after the club suffered relegation from Ligue 1.
Garcia told the club’s official website: “I am pleased and proud to have been approached by president [Gervais] Martel.
“It is therefore with great pleasure and a real motivation that I join Lens as head coach. With my staff, I will do everything to complete this great and wonderful project proposed by this leading French club.
“My goal is to rebuild a competitive team which the club’s enthusiastic fans will be able to recognise and identify with.”
