Balotelli to Get a New Coach at Genoa—And It's a Familiar Face

Mario Balotelli's return to Serie A with Genoa comes with a twist. After just two matches under Alberto Gilardino, the forward is set to work with a new head coach.

Details: According to Matteo Moretto, Genoa’s management has decided to part ways with Gilardino. His replacement will be Patrick Vieira, former manager of Nice, Strasbourg, and Crystal Palace.

Reminder: Genoa currently sits 17th in the Serie A standings after 12 rounds, just one point above the relegation zone.

Balotelli and Vieira previously worked together at Nice, where their relationship was marked by tension. Vieira, who had played alongside Balotelli at Manchester City and Inter Milan, criticized the striker during their time in France, claiming that Balotelli’s mentality was not suited for team sports like football.

Interestingly, Vieira was also considered for the managerial role at Rennes earlier this year before Genoa secured his services.