Patrick Vieira has officially stepped down as head coach of Genoa by mutual agreement, following a disappointing start to the Serie A season that has left the club at the bottom of the league table.
Mutual agreement after extended poor form
The 49-year-old Frenchman, who took over the team in November 2024, exits after the club failed to secure a single win in nine league matches this season.
Genoa released a short statement confirming Vieira “was no longer the coach of the first team.” A source close to the former Arsenal captain disclosed that Vieira initiated talks about his future on Friday evening, which led to a mutual decision between both parties to part ways.
Vieira initially impressed upon arrival, lifting Genoa from 17th to 13th place last season, recording eight wins and nine draws in 26 league fixtures. His early work earned praise for stabilizing the squad and restoring structure to the team.
Patrick Vieira leaves Genoa on mutual agreement – Getty image
However, the current campaign proved far more difficult, with Genoa suffering six defeats in nine league games and securing just two victories — both coming in the Coppa Italia.
In its farewell message, the club thanked Vieira and his technical team “for their dedication, hard work and professionalism” and extended best wishes for their future careers.
Another chapter in Vieira’s challenging managerial path
This exit marks yet another twist in Vieira’s managerial journey, which has been characterized by flashes of brilliance and periods of inconsistency.
Since beginning his coaching career after retiring in 2011, the legendary midfielder has taken charge of multiple clubs including New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, and RC Strasbourg. He has enjoyed bright phases — such as reaching the FA Cup semi-final with Crystal Palace — but also endured abrupt dismissals and difficult rebuilds.
As a player, Vieira remains one of the most decorated midfielders of his era, winning three Premier League titles and four FA Cups with Arsenal, alongside league triumphs at AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Manchester City, plus World Cup and European Championship glory with France.
His next managerial destination remains unknown, but football fans and analysts will be watching closely to see where the French icon continues his coaching career.