Malesani out, Marino in at Genoa

Genoa have sacked coach Alberto Malesani, replacing him with Pasquale Marino following their 6-1 thrashing at Napoli on Wednesday.

Malesani took over at Genoa in June, and with the club sitting in 10th place in Serie A – the same position they finished last term – the outfit’s board has decided to bring in former Parma boss Marino after the humiliation in Naples.

Marino, who has previously been in charge of Catania and Udinese, was sacked by Parma in April but has signed a two-year deal with Genoa.

“Genoa has entrusted the conduct of the first team to Pasquale Marino,” Genoa said in a statement.

“The club thanks the coach Alberto Malesani for the work he did during his time at the club.”

Marino, who also replaced Malesani in charge of Udinese in four years ago, described his appointment as the ideal Christmas present.

“Getting a great club like Genoa is the most beautiful Christmas gift I could imagine,” the 49-year-old said.

“I was contacted this morning. I want to thank the chairman and the club and intend to repay the faith they have shown in me. I’m looking forward to starting work.”