Davids: Shock move to Barnet
The 39-year-old, who has been out of football since a brief playing stint with Crystal Palace in 2010, has been named joint head coach of the League Two team alongside incumbent Mark Robson.
Davids told the club's website: "I'm happy to explore my possibilities and share my knowledge and experience with Barnet Football Club. I am very excited about the challenge ahead."
Davids first announced the news on Twitter, where he also stated his intention be part of the playing squad at the Football League's bottom club.
He said: "Happy to say I will join my local football club Barnet fc as a player/coach."
A statement on Barnet's website said he would be involved in training later on Friday and could make his debut within a fortnight.
Robson was relishing his partnership with Davids, who played 74 times for Holland.
"I am delighted to welcome Edgar to our club," said Robson. "His experience as a player throughout his illustrious career will be a massive benefit to all our players and I look forward to forming a strong partnership with him."
Barnet have struggled under Robson. They sit at the foot of the League Two table, with no wins and just three points from their 11 games this season.
Robson was placed in charge of Barnet back in June, taking over from Martin Allen, whose short-term contract expired after the Bees stayed up on the last day of last season.
He was put in control of first-team matters as well as aiding the development of academy football at Barnet in what was described as a "comprehensive transformation of the club's footballing strategy".
Results have not followed, though, leading the club to turn to Davids.
Director of football Paul Fairclough said: "The capture of Davids is a statement of intent by our club to improve results and lay further foundations for the future.
"Edgar is a world renowned footballer and will be a great example to all our young players."
In a glittering career, Davids won a vast array of silverware including one Champions League title, one UEFA Cup, three Serie A crowns and three in the Dutch Eredivisie.
He first retired from football when his second stint at Ajax ended in 2008, but had a three-month spell at Palace in 2010.
