Report Genoa to part company with Ottolini, hire ex-Lens director of sport

Patrick Vieira remains in doubt, but the first change at Genoa would seem to be the departure of director of sport Marco Ottolini, who was linked with Juventus, bringing in ex-Lens chief Diego Lopez.

It is inevitable that the crisis of results is shaking up the Grifone, who are rock bottom of the table with just three draws in the first nine Serie A rounds.

Last night’s 2-0 home defeat to Cremonese prompted an angry protest from the fans, who demanded something be done to turn things around.

While no decision has been made yet on coach Vieira, multiple sources this evening confirm that director of sport Ottolini is in negotiations to terminate his contract by mutual consent.

La Gazzetta dello Sport first launched the report, followed swiftly by the likes of Sportitalia, Sky Sport Italia and more.

He had been in the role since July 2022, before that working at Juventus and RSC Anderlecht in their scouting network.

There had already been tension behind the scenes when Ottolini was linked with the vacant director of sport role at Juventus in recent weeks.

Now it would seem as if he will be replaced at Genoa regardless, with Diego Lopez expected to take over.

Lopez is only 36 years old and was promoted to director of sport at RC Lens in 2024, leaving the club in May 2025.