Patrick Vieira expressed his frustration towards Serie A referees as his Genoa side conceded two penalties in the Frenchman’s first game in charge.
Razvan Marin and Roberto Piccoli both converted from the spot in the 2-2 draw for visitors Cagliari. Vieira noted that he was happy with his team’s performance but could not accept the controversial decisions.
Genoa now lie in 16th-place in Serie A, two points safe from the relegation zone, and have managed just two wins from their last 14 games in all competitions.
Vieira was minutes away from a dream start before Genoa’s 2-1 lead was thrown away in the 88th minute – Aaron Martin brought Piccoli down in the penalty area and the Italian striker was flawless from the spot.
‘It is honestly difficult to accept the second penalty, in particular,’ Vieira said.
‘With all due respect to the referee, I think he got it wrong on the second penalty, but the first was irritating too.
Patrick Vieira hit out at referees after his Genoa side conceded two penalties in his first game
Mario Balotelli was disappointed after coming on with only a few minutes to play in the match
Genoa now lie in 16th-place in Serie A and are only two points away from the relegation zone
‘I do not agree with the explanation given by the referee and we cannot ask players to jump with their arms down.
‘In any case, we have to set this aside and focus on the things we can control.’
Vieira decided to wait until the 89th minute to bring former Man City team-mate Mario Balotelli on, much to the striker’s disappointment.
The pair crossed paths while Vieira was manager at Nice, where they had a tense relationship, and are now navigating an awkward reunion following Vieira’s appointment at Genoa.
Vieira previously claimed that the former Italy international was difficult to work with due to his way of life and individuality, but was impressed by his mentality after Sunday’s game.
‘We still have to work on the attacking phase and these players have the quality to come on and give their contribution,’ he said.
‘Mario was disappointed because he wanted to come on earlier, but these are the reactions I want to see from my players.’