Patrick Vieira Appointed Genoa Head Coach

Patrick Vieira, the former Arsenal and France midfielder, has been appointed as the new head coach of Genoa, replacing Alberto Gilardino, who was sacked despite recent improvements in the team's performance. Vieira, who has previously managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace, and Strasbourg, is expected to bring his extensive playing and coaching experience to the struggling Serie A side, which is currently just above the relegation zone. His first match in charge will be against Cagliari, with both teams level on points in the league. Vieira's appointment also reunites him with former Manchester City teammate Mario Balotelli, though their past relationship at Nice was strained. Gilardino had led Genoa to Serie A promotion and a respectable finish last season, but the current poor start with only 10 points from 12 games necessitated a change. Vieira's task will be to stabilize the team and improve its standing in the league as he takes charge immediately.