Vieira Returns to Management with Genoa Challenge | OneFootball

Patrick Vieira Takes Charge at Genoa: A New Chapter in Serie A

Patrick Vieira, a footballing icon and former Arsenal midfield general, has been unveiled as Genoa’s new head coach. The announcement follows the dismissal of Alberto Gilardino, who departed the Serie A side after a challenging start to the season. Genoa currently sit precariously at 17th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club has yet to reveal the precise details of Vieira’s contract, but the 48-year-old is set to oversee his first training session on Wednesday. This appointment marks another chapter in Vieira’s managerial career, which has been defined by both promise and challenges.

Genoa’s Struggles Under Gilardino

Alberto Gilardino, who took charge of Genoa in December 2022, played a pivotal role in guiding the club back to Serie A. His efforts earned them automatic promotion and a respectable 11th-place finish last season. However, this campaign has been less forgiving, with the team securing just 10 points from 12 matches.

While Gilardino’s departure reflects the harsh realities of modern football, Vieira’s arrival signals Genoa’s desire for fresh leadership and tactical innovation to steer clear of relegation.

Vieira’s Managerial Journey

Patrick Vieira’s name is etched into football history, not only for captaining Arsenal’s legendary ‘Invincibles’ but also for earning 107 caps with the French national team. His transition from a world-class player to a manager began in 2016 with Major League Soccer side New York City FC, where he spent two and a half years.

Subsequent stints at Ligue 1 clubs Nice and Strasbourg saw mixed success. At Strasbourg, Vieira navigated the team to a 13th-place finish last season, comfortably avoiding relegation, though he parted ways with the club in June 2024. His time in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, while initially promising, ended in March 2023 with the Eagles just three points above the drop zone.

Speaking about his managerial philosophy, Vieira has previously emphasised the importance of instilling discipline and playing an attractive style of football, qualities Genoa will be hoping he can deliver.

Challenges Ahead for Vieira

Genoa’s upcoming fixtures offer Vieira a chance to make an immediate impact. A crucial clash against 16th-placed Cagliari is followed by a trip to Udinese, currently ninth in the table. Securing points in these encounters could be vital for stabilising the team’s position in Serie A.

As Vieira takes the reins, Genoa supporters will hope his leadership and experience as a player translate into a managerial revival. His task is clear: to galvanise a team teetering on the brink of relegation and inspire a surge up the standings.