Patrick Vieira has left Genoa with the club experiencing their worst-ever start to a Serie A season, and Mario Balotelli was quick to stick the knife in.

Arsenal legend Vieira has taken just three points from nine games to leave the portside team rock bottom of the Italian top flight.

Genoa had to act with fans booing the team week-in week-outCredit: Getty

And Balotelli was among the critics of his former manager and teammateCredit: Getty

talkSPORT understands Vieira reflected on his position on Friday and then initiated conversations with the club. Both parties mutually decided to part ways.

A club statement read: "Genoa CFC announces that Patrick Vieira is no longer the coach of the First Team.

"The club wishes to thank the coach and his staff for the seriousness and professionalism demonstrated throughout their work and extends its best wishes for the continuation of their professional careers.

"The technical guidance of the First Team has been temporarily entrusted to Mr. Roberto Murgita, assisted by Mr. Domenico Criscito."

Balotelli was quick to stick the knife in on his former Manchester City and Inter Milan teammate with two separate posts on Instagram.

The 35-year-old, who was frozen out at Genoa under Vieira last season, wrote: "Karma...