Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira has been sacked as manager of Genoa.
Vieira was appointed by Genoa was just under a year ago to replace Alberto Gilardino with team one spot above the relegation zone.
He did a remarkable job to guide Genoa to a 13th-place finish last season and his reward was a two-year contract extension - which was only signed back in June.
However, the decision has been made to part company with the former France international following the club’s worst ever start to a Serie A season.
Genoa are winless in nine league games so far this season and have taken just three points to sit bottom of the table, though they are only a couple of points from escaping the relegation zone.
Ultimately the final straw for Vieira came on Wednesday night as Genoa were beaten 2-0 at home by Jamie Vardy’s Cremonese as Federico Bonazzoli netted a brace.
A statement via the club’s website reads: "Genoa CFC announces that Patrick Vieira is no longer the coach of the First Team.
"The club wishes to thank the coach and his staff for the seriousness and professionalism demonstrated throughout their work and extends its best wishes for the continuation of their professional careers.
"The technical guidance of the First Team has been temporarily entrusted to Mr. Roberto Murgita, assisted by Mr. Domenico Criscito."
Genoa were Vieira’s fifth managerial club following spells with New York FC, Nice, Crystal Palace and Strasbourg.
