SIENA, ITALY - DECEMBER 10: Genoa CFC fans greet players as they celebrate victory at the end of the Serie A match between AC Siena and Genoa CFC at Artemio Franchi - Mps Arena Stadium on December 10, 2011 in Siena, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)
Genoa have an indifferent owner, and it shows in the way they've conducted their summer dealings. It's unlikely that Ciro Immobile will be enough to save this squad from relegation.
So Genoa managed to hang on in Serie A last season, if only by the hair on their chinny chin chins. Or perhaps by virtue of the fact that Novara were just a bit worse than the rossoblu. Either way, they're back, and at least we get the Derby della Lanterna out of it, what with Sampdoria returning to the top division.
Last Season
17th, Serie A. Managed to finish five points above the relegation zone, but those last few rounds were frightening for Genoa. Oh, and there was that time the ultras stopped the match against Siena to demand the shirts from the players' backs. Considering they were losing 4-0 to Siena at the time, many of the players actually stripped, realising that they really weren't fit for the shirt.
Who's Gone?
Rodrigo Palacio: Everyone's favourite rat-tailed striker has been snapped up by Inter Milan, taking his 18 goal tally with him.
Kevin Constant: The French midfielder is off to AC Milan on loan.
Miguel Veloso: His greatest achievement last season was earning 10 yellow cards. No wonder he was sold to Dynamo Kyiv.
Who's In?
Ciro Immobile: Serie B's top-goalscorer last season, banging in 28 goals for champions Pescara. It's unlikely he'll see that many in Serie A, but Genoa are still gambling that he's a worthwhile addition to their squad.
Immobile is really the only significant name to come into Genoa during the summer. They've reinforced their squad with a few decent, cheap pickups, but with Enrico Preziosi desperate to sell the club, he's not looking to put a lot of money into new signings.
Keep An Eye On
The ultras. Their escapades last April seem giggle-worthy now, but at the time, things looked scary. Flares being thrown, supporters threatening players, stoppage of play...the rossoblu faithful will not be easily appeased. If Genoa are struggling near the bottom, it's quite likely we'll see more of the ultras than we really care to.
Predicted Finish
Genoa are my third pick to go down, along with Pescara and Sampdoria. With a reluctant owner and no real sign of investment, it's hard to believe they'll improve that much from last season. Unless Immobile carries the weight of the team, they'll be spending next season in Serie B.
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