Vieira named new head coach of Italian side Genoa

Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has been named head coach of Serie A club Genoa, succeeding Alberto Gilardino. Genoa, currently 17th in the table and one point above the relegation zone, hopes Vieira can turn their season around after winning just two of 12 league games.

The appointment reunites Vieira with Mario Balotelli, who recently joined Genoa. Vieira previously managed Balotelli at Nice during the 2018–19 season, where tactical disagreements led to Balotelli's departure.

Vieira enjoyed a decorated playing career, winning Premier League titles with Arsenal and major trophies with AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Manchester City. He also won the 1998 World Cup and 2000 European Championship with France.

As a coach, Vieira has managed New York City FC, Nice, and Crystal Palace, guiding the latter to the 2021 FA Cup semi-finals.