Serie A club Genoa have confirmed the departure of head coach Alberto Gilardino, while Patrick Vieira is reportedly on the way.
Gilardino, a World Cup winner with Italy in 2006, leaves the club just one point above the relegation table with 10 points from 12 games this season.
Gilardino, a former striker who played for clubs including Genoa, Parma, AC Milan and Fiorentina, took charge of Genoa in 2022 and helped them gain promotion to the top division before finishing in 11th place during the 2023-2024 season.
“The club thanks Gilardino for the goals we have achieved together in recent years and wishes him the best for his career,” Genoa said in a statement.
The 42-year-old saw his side salvage a late 1-1 draw against Cesc Fabregas' Como in their final match before the international break.
Genoa were also eliminated from the Coppa Italia in the second round after losing to Sampdoria on penalties in September.
According to multiple reports, Arsenal legend Vieira will replace him.
The former France midfielder has been out of work since leaving Strasbourg by mutual consent in July.
The Genoa CFC communication with Alberto Gilardino and the state sollevato of incarico.
Mr. Gilardino, Mr. Gilardino, has made efforts in society to live his life and enlarge me for his own carrier. pic.twitter.com/BscCu2krdE
— Genoa CFC (@GenoaCFC) November 19, 2024
Vieira won the World Cup and European Championships with his national team, while also winning silverware with AC Milan, Arsenal, Inter Milan and Manchester City during an illustrious playing career.
After retiring in 2011, he managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace and Strasbourg.
If confirmed as Genoa manager, Vieira will become the first French manager to manage at least three of the five major European championships in the 21st century.
He would also reunite with former City and Inter teammate Mario Balotelli, who he also managed at Genoa during the 2018/19 season.
Genoa will face Cagliari at Stadio Luigi Ferraris in their next match on Sunday.
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