Football Season Guide

Life under their American owners began disastrously for Genoa in 2021/2022, as they were relegated to the Serie B after a 15-year tenure in the top tier of Italian football. Last season, though, they managed to achieve promotion back to the Serie A at the first time of asking but it turned out to be far from easy. In fact, by week 15 they were sitting on the 5th spot, a long way from the top 2 which would have granted them immediate promotion. Coach Alexander Blessin was thus sacked and replaced by Alberto Gilardino, who had done well in the lower categories. They lost only 3 in the subsequent 23 games and successfully reached the 2nd place. Gilardino, who adopts a 3-5-2 formation, was confirmed in charge despite his lack of experience at top level. Last season Genoa had a very tight defence, they conceded 28 goals only, and they saw no reason for change, turning into permanent deals goalie Martinez and centre-back Dragusin’s loans. They lost back-up goalie Semper but Leali should be a valid replacement. Moreover, Vasquez, returning from Cremonese, could add depth to the department. In the midfield, Strootman will stay on at the club while Thorsby, who had done very well when at Sampdoria, should be given a starting role. Left-back Martin could also become a protagonist since the likes of Czyborra and Haps returned to their parent clubs while legendary Criscito hanged up his boots. However, Genoa made the main effort hiring Retegui from Tigre. A lot is expected from the Italian international, who will replace aging Coda, 11 goals last season, up-front. Moreover, they will hope not to lose Gudmundsson, their top scorer last campaign with 14 goals. Genoa are still on the hunt for a centre-back, alternatives for the midfield, also considering that Sturaro was let go, and the attack.