Struggling Genoa sack Gilardino as coach

Genoa have sacked their coach Alberto Gilardino, the relegation-threatened Serie A side announced on Tuesday.

"Genoa CFC announces that Alberto Gilardino has been relieved of his duties," the club wrote on social media.

Genoa sit 17th in the table, just one point above the relegation zone, with only two wins from 12 matches this season.

The 42-year-old Gilardino took over at Genoa in December 2022, after coaching the club's Under-19 team. Last term, he guided them to an 11th-placed finish in the table.

Gilardino, a World Cup winner in 2006 with Italy, made over 500 appearances in Serie A as a player and also claimed a Champions League title in 2007 with AC Milan.

The former striker spent a brief period at Genoa between 2012-2014, scoring 21 goals in 52 outings.

Several media outlets have reported that ex-Arsenal and France midfielder Patrick Vieira could replace the Italian on the bench at Genoa.

Vieira, 48, previously managed Crystal Palace in the Premier League. He has been without a club since leaving Ligue 1 side Strasbourg in July.