Ballardini departs Genoa

Davide Ballardini has parted company with Genoa after just eight months in charge, despite leading the team to 10th place in Serie A.

Former Lazio and Palermo coach Ballardini arrived at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris in November 2010, replacing Gian Piero Gasperini, who was sacked after the team picked up just 10 points from the first 11 matches of the season.

Ballardini, 47, signed a two-year deal with the club but has now been released following discussions with Genoa chairman Enrico Preziosi.

“Instead of having another year of contract, from today Ballardini is free,” Preziosi said on Radio Radio.

“I spoke to him by telephone and thanked him for the work he did and the calmness he showed.”

“But I won’t divulge the reason for our separation; I don’t think it would be right to do so.”