Andriy Shevchenko explains why he felt drawn to the Genoa job and will always have ‘a special bond’ with Italy after his days at Milan.
This is the first Serie A management role for Sheva, who was a legend at Milan during his playing days from 1999 to 2006 and again in 2008-09, where he won the Champions League, Scudetto and Ballon d’Or.
His coaching career has been entirely at international level, first as assistant manager for Ukraine, then the main coach from 2016 to 2021.
“This is a very important moment in my career as a coach,” said Shevchenko at his presentation press conference this afternoon.
“I wish to think Josh Wander (of 777 Partners, the new Genoa owners) and Genoa’s project for bringing me back to Italy, a country with which I have a special bond.
“Genoa are an important club, this is a project I care about and the number one objective for us right now is to be in Serie A again next season. This is the oldest club in Italy and that means something. I hope to remain here for a long time.”
Davide Ballardini was sacked after managing just one victory, six draws and five defeats in Serie A this term.
He had already been at the helm before 777 Partners completed the takeover of the club from Enrico Preziosi, so a change of coach was always on the cards and Shevchenko is certainly a big name.
“I was really convinced by this project. I believe Genoa can do great things in future. I remember it was like playing against 12 men at Marassi, because the fans were so passionate. I hope they can provide that atmosphere again, because we need their support.
“The team needs to be reinforced in January. Historically, it has always been a very aggressive side and we need the right mentality. Speaking to the players, I felt they too wanted to improve the situation.
“I think this side has certain characteristics, probably suited to either the 3-5-2 or the 4-3-3 formation.”
Shevchenko was asked which coaches he had learned from in his Serie A playing career.
“The Italian school is very important, so working with coaches like Carlo Ancelotti, Alberto Zaccheroni and Cesare Maldini was a great experience. Coming to coach in Italy means being able to challenge the best tacticians and it’s an exciting challenge for me.”
Sheva’s debut on the Genoa bench will be against Jose Mourinho’s Roma after the break for international duty.
“I have great respect for Mourinho. His arrival has brought a great deal to Italian football.”