OFFICIAL: Arsenal legend dismissed

Patrick Vieira was formally relieved of his duties at Genoa after failing to secure a win in nine Serie A games, concluding the short and frustrating chapter for the Arsenal legend in Italy.

Genoa club has officially announced the dismissal of head coach Patrick Vieira after a poor start to the new season, with the team still winless after nine rounds in Serie A.

The French legend was appointed as Genoa’s head coach less than a year ago, replacing Alberto Gilardino amid the club’s struggle near the bottom of the table. Under Vieira’s leadership, Genoa revived strongly and finished last season in 13th place, far exceeding the management’s expectations. This achievement earned him a two-year contract extension in June.

However, the 2025/26 season has started very poorly. Genoa has only collected 3 points in 9 matches, sitting at the bottom of the standings, and is one of the few teams yet to taste victory. The recent 0-2 home defeat to Cremonese, with Federico Bonazzoli scoring twice, was the final straw that forced the board to terminate Vieira’s contract.

In a statement posted on the official website, the club said: “Genoa CFC announces that Patrick Vieira is no longer the head coach of the first team. The club thanks him and his coaching staff for their dedication and professionalism during their tenure and wishes them success in their future endeavors.”

For now, Roberto Murgita will take over as interim head coach, assisted by Domenico Criscito, Genoa’s former iconic captain.

Before coming to Italy, Patrick Vieira gained coaching experience at New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, and Strasbourg. Despite a coaching career with ups and downs, he is regarded as a young, modern manager with sharp tactical insight.

Nevertheless, Genoa’s poor form this season made Vieira’s position untenable. His early departure is seen as a necessary move by the club’s leadership to revive the team before the season progresses too far.