Genoa has replaced head coach Alberto Gilardino with former Arsenal captain Patrick Vieira, according to reports from Sky Sport Italia. Gilardino, who took over in July 2022, guided Genoa to promotion from Serie B in 2023 but has been dismissed after a disappointing start to the current Serie A campaign. The team sits precariously in 17th place with just 10 points from their opening 12 matches.
Vieira, most recently at French Ligue 1 club Strasbourg, brings extensive managerial experience to Italy’s oldest football team, founded in 1893. His coaching journey began with Manchester City’s under-23 team, followed by roles at MLS side New York City, Ligue 1’s Nice, and Premier League club Crystal Palace. He left Strasbourg in July 2023 after a brief stint in charge.
The move also reunites Vieira with Mario Balotelli, who joined Genoa this season. The pair previously worked together during Vieira’s tenure at Nice, where he coached the Italian striker for part of the 2018-19 campaign. Balotelli's arrival adds an intriguing dynamic to Vieira’s challenge of steering Genoa away from the relegation zone.
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