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 confirms the sacking of head coach Alberto Gilardino, with Patrick Vieira reportedly set to take over amid relegation concerns.

Genoa have sacked their coach Alberto Gilardino, the relegation-threatened Serie A side announced on Tuesday."Genoa CFC announces that Alberto Gilardino has been relieved of his duties," the club wrote on social media.