Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira sacked after nightmare run and explosive rant | Football | Sport
Patrick Vieira has been fired by Genoa after a dismal start to their Serie A campaign which left them bottom of the table. The former Arsenal midfielder’s final match saw his side lose 2-0 at home to newly promoted Cremonese on Wednesday evening. Federico Bonazzoli, who plays alongside Jamie Vardy, scored both goals in Cremonese’s victory.
The defeat extended Genoa’s winless run to nine matches at the start of the new campaign. In a statement, the club said: “Genoa CFC announces that Patrick Vieira is no longer the first team coach. The club would like to thank the coach and his team for the dedication and professionalism they have shown throughout their work and wishes them the best for their future careers.
“The technical direction of the first team has been entrusted on an interim basis to Mr. Roberto Murgita, assisted by Mr. Domenico Criscito.”
Vieira only signed a new deal with the Italian club during the summer transfer window after being touted for a return to his former employers Inter Milan. Simone Inzaghi had recently left Inter for Al-Hilal but was eventually replaced by Vieira’s former colleague at San Siro, Christian Chivu.
Genoa started their campaign strongly with a 3-0 win over third division Vicenza in the Coppa Italia, before knocking out Serie B side Empoli in the second round, but were unable to translate that success into championship form.
Their record stands at just three draws and six defeats in nine matches, while their tally of just four goals scored represents the worst result in the division.
Supporters expressed their displeasure following Cremonese’s defeat, with Vieira immediately questioned about his stance. He reacted explosively by attacking the journalist in question.
“You ask me a question like this after a match? I understand it’s your job, but this question makes no sense to me,” he replied.
“My concern is trying to find a way to win matches. It’s a difficult moment for all of us and we have to accept the criticism that comes our way. For the rest, we’ll see. Answering this question now is not my style.”
Vieira took charge of Genoa last November following the departure of his predecessor Alberto Gilardino, with the club languishing in 17th position.
He orchestrated a turnaround during the second half of the campaign, guiding them to a mid-table finish and claiming a notable late-season stalemate against title contenders Napoli.