Patrick Vieira has been dismissed by Genoa following their dismal start to the Serie A campaign which has left them rooted to the bottom of the table. The former Arsenal midfielder's final match in charge saw his side suffer a 2-0 home defeat to newly-promoted Cremonese on Wednesday evening. Federico Bonazzoli, who plays alongside Jamie Vardy, netted both goals in Cremonese's victory.
The loss extended Genoa's winless run to nine matches at the beginning of the new campaign. In a statement, the club said: "Genoa CFC announces that Patrick Vieira is no longer the coach of the first team. The club would like to thank the coach and his staff for the dedication and professionalism they have shown throughout their work and wishes them all the best for their future careers.
"The technical leadership of the first team has been entrusted on an interim basis to Mister Roberto Murgita, assisted by Mister Domenico Criscito."
Vieira had only penned a fresh deal with the Italian club during the summer transfer window after being touted for a return to former employers Inter Milan. Simone Inzaghi had recently departed Inter for Al-Hilal but was ultimately succeeded by Vieira's ex-San Siro colleague, Christian Chivu.
Genoa began their campaign strongly with a commanding 3-0 triumph over third-tier Vicenza in the Coppa Italia, before dispatching Serie B outfit Empoli in the second round, but have been unable to translate that success into league form.
Their record stands at merely three draws and six losses from nine matches, whilst their tally of just four goals scored represents the joint-poorest return in the division.
Supporters voiced their displeasure following the Cremonese loss, with Vieira questioned about his position immediately afterwards. He issued an explosive response, hitting out at the journalist in question.
"You ask me a question like this after a match? I understand it is your job, but this question makes no sense to me," he responded.
"My worry is to try to find a way to win games. This is a difficult moment for all of us, and we must accept the criticism that comes our way. For the rest, we'll see. Replying to this question now is not my style."
Vieira assumed control at Genoa last November following predecessor Alberto Gilardino's departure with the club languishing in 17th position.
He orchestrated a turnaround during the latter half of the campaign, guiding them to a mid-table finish and claiming a notable late-season stalemate away to title contenders Napoli.