The managerial career of Arsenal icon Patrick Vieira has suffered another significant blow after Italian club Genoa terminated his contract following a dismal start to the Serie A season.
Vieira's reign at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris lasted just three months, with the former French international managing only two victories in eleven league matches. The final straw came after Saturday's 2-0 defeat to Bologna, leaving Genoa languishing in 17th position and dangerously close to the relegation zone.
From Promise to Premature Exit
When Vieira took charge in August, there was considerable optimism surrounding his appointment. The World Cup winner was seen as the ideal candidate to build upon Genoa's mid-table finish last season and implement an attractive, progressive style of football.
However, the reality proved starkly different. Under Vieira's guidance, Genoa managed just eight points from their opening eleven games, with the team scoring a mere nine goals while conceding eighteen. The disappointing statistics reflect a team struggling for identity and consistency.
A Growing Pattern of Managerial Struggles
This dismissal marks the latest chapter in what has become a challenging transition from legendary player to successful manager for Vieira. Since beginning his coaching career, the former midfield maestro has experienced mixed results across various clubs.
His managerial record now includes:
- New York City FC (2016-2018) - Moderate success in MLS
- Nice (2018-2020) - Dismissed after poor run of form
- Crystal Palace (2021-2023) - Struggled to implement style
- Strasbourg (2023-2024) - Short-lived tenure in Ligue 1
- Genoa (2025) - Three-month stint ending in dismissal
What Next for Genoa and Vieira?
Genoa's management acted decisively, with club officials stating they felt compelled to make a change before their situation became irreparable. The search for Vieira's replacement is already underway, with several Italian managers being considered for the rescue mission.
For Vieira, this latest setback raises serious questions about his future in management. Despite his incredible playing pedigree and deep understanding of the game, translating that knowledge into consistent results has proven elusive.
As Genoa look to stabilise their season and avoid a relegation battle, Vieira faces the prospect of rebuilding his managerial reputation once again. At 49 years old, time remains on his side, but the pattern of short-term appointments is becoming increasingly concerning for the football legend's coaching aspirations.
