Genoa has confirmed Patrick Vieira as its new coach. That could have implications for Mario Balotelli, less than a month after the former Italy forward joined the Serie A club.

Patrick Vieira has been appointed as Genoa head coach. The former Arsenal midfielder replaces Alberto Gilardino, who was sacked by the Serie A club on Tuesday. Genoa have not yet confirmed the length of Vieira’s appointment but say the 48-year-old will take charge of his first training session and finalise his contract later on Wednesday.

Genoa surprisingly fired coach Alberto Gilardino on Tuesday and reportedly already have Patrick Vieira lined up to replace him -- which could have implications for new forward Mario Balotelli.

Genoa has surprisingly fired coach Alberto Gilardino and reportedly already has Patrick Vieira lined up to replace him.