Patrick Vieira faces awkward reunion with ex-teammate as he's set for new job

The Frenchman will replace Alberto Gilardino in the dugout this week.

Genoa are currently 17th in Serie A after winning just two of their first 12 matches this season.

Vieira's opening match in charge would come at home to Cagliari on Sunday.

It is his first job since leaving Strasbourg in July following just a single season in charge.

Meanwhile, he is also set to reunite with a former teammate who he already has experience managing.

READ MORE IN FOOTBALL

From Ronaldo and Messi to Pele and Beckham - the top ten highest free-kick scorers ever

Ian Holloway gives Swindon training ground tour to try and prove ghost claim

Genoa's squad includes former Italy striker Mario Balotelli, who played alongside Vieira 44 times for Manchester City and Inter Milan.

The 34-year-old joined the club last month, having been a free agent after leaving Adana Demirspor in the summer.

He has yet to score for his new side but has picked up a yellow card in each of his first two appearances.

It will be the second time Balotelli has played under Vieira after making 10 appearances for his Nice side in 2018.

Most read in Football

How Man United could line up against Ipswich as Amorim to drop three stars in first game

Frank Lampard in advanced talks for Championship job that Ruud van Nistelrooy applied for

Harry Kane statue hidden away for five years finally unveiled - and fans are in disbelief

Ian Holloway gives Swindon training ground tour to try and prove ghost claim

The forward failed to score in those matches, though, and reportedly turned up late for Vieira's first training session.

Addressing the challenge of managing Balotelli at the time, Vieira said: "When it comes to Mario, I want to answer back, or just slam him up against the wall, or leave him hanging by his collar on the coat rack.

"But I can't, as I'm no longer a player."

He reflected on their time working together again in 2020, adding: "Mario's mindset was difficult for a collective sport.

"The philosophy I wanted to put in place, the togetherness and work ethic I wanted to build, it was difficult for me to work with a player like Mario.

"It was really difficult for both of us to work together so we decided to go different ways."