Patrick Vieira is one of the most iconic names in football, known for his powerful playing style and influential managerial career. Born in Senegal on June 23, 1976, Vieira made his mark on the football world both as a player and a coach. Over the years, he has gone from being a dominant midfield force to a respected manager, taking on roles in several top clubs around the world.
In 2024, Patrick Vieira is back in the limelight as the head coach of Genoa in Serie A, Italy, a position he took over after a challenging stint with Crystal Palace. With a career that spans over two decades, Vieira has become a key figure in football history, not just for his on-field accomplishments but also for his leadership and management style. His career has always been intertwined with memorable moments, from his fierce rivalry with Roy Keane to his leadership of Arsenal during their "Invincible" season.
Key Takeaways
- Patrick Vieira is a French football legend, both as a player and manager.
- He is currently the head coach of Genoa in Serie A, taking on the role in late 2024.
- Vieira had a distinguished playing career, known for his time at Arsenal, Juventus, and Manchester City, among other clubs.
- He played an important role in France’s 1998 FIFA World Cup and 2000 UEFA European Championship victories.
- His rivalry with Roy Keane is one of the most famous in Premier League history.
Patrick Vieira’s Early Playing Career
Patrick Vieira began his professional career in his homeland of France before making his way into the international football scene. He started at Cannes in Ligue 1 before moving to AC Milan at a young age. However, his time at Milan was brief and did not feature prominently in his career. It was at Arsenal, under manager Arsène Wenger, that Vieira truly became a global football star.
At Arsenal, Vieira became a vital part of the team. His leadership, combined with his vision, stamina, and ability to break up opposition attacks, made him one of the best midfielders of his era. He captained Arsenal to an unbeaten season in the Premier League, a remarkable achievement in 2003-2004. Vieira’s time at Arsenal cemented his status as one of the greatest players to ever play in the Premier League.
Vieira’s Managerial Journey – From New York to Genoa
After retiring as a player, Patrick Vieira transitioned into management. His first major managerial role came at New York City FC, where he enjoyed a period of growth in Major League Soccer. He later returned to Europe, managing OGC Nice in France, before taking over as the manager of Crystal Palace in the Premier League.
In November 2024, Vieira was appointed head coach of Genoa, a club in Italy’s Serie A. Genoa, which has been struggling near the relegation zone, is hoping Vieira can bring them back to the top. This job marks an exciting new chapter in his career, as he brings his wealth of experience to Italy’s top division.
Patrick Vieira’s Stats and Achievements
Patrick Vieira’s playing career was filled with triumphs. He played for multiple prestigious clubs and earned numerous accolades along the way. With Arsenal, he won three Premier League titles, including the unforgettable 2003-2004 season where the team went unbeaten. He also claimed four FA Cups with the club.
In addition to his success at the club level, Vieira was a key figure in the French national team. His leadership helped France win both the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the 2000 UEFA European Championship, cementing his place in history as one of the best midfielders in world football.
Over his career, Vieira made 456 appearances for club teams, scoring 45 goals, and earned 107 caps for France, scoring 6 goals. His stats reflect not only his consistency but also his importance in both defensive and attacking phases of play.
| Key Life Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Patrick Vieira |
| Born | June 23, 1976, Dakar, Senegal |
| Height | 1.93 meters (6 feet 4 inches) |
| Famous for | Captain of Arsenal’s "Invincibles", FIFA World Cup Winner (1998) |
| Clubs Played For | Cannes, AC Milan, Arsenal, Juventus, Inter Milan, Manchester City |
| Managerial Roles | New York City FC, OGC Nice, Crystal Palace, Genoa |
| Achievements | 3 Premier League Titles, 4 FA Cups, 1998 World Cup Winner, 2000 Euro Winner |
| Current Job | Head Coach of Genoa (2024) |
Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane – The Rivalry That Defined an Era
One of the most legendary rivalries in Premier League history was between Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane. The two players clashed on the field multiple times, as they represented Arsenal and Manchester United, two of the most successful clubs of the 2000s.
Vieira’s combative, all-around play was in direct contrast to Keane’s more tactical, aggressive style. Their meetings were often heated, with both players showing immense passion for their teams. The Vieira-Keane rivalry transcended individual games and became symbolic of the broader rivalry between the two clubs during the 2000s.
Vieira’s Influence in the Modern Football World
In 2024, Patrick Vieira continues to influence the football world, not just through his coaching but also through his involvement in the business side of the sport. Known for his keen insight into the game, Vieira has taken on various roles in football commentary and has been active in promoting diversity and inclusion in the sport.
As a coach, he is also known for his emphasis on youth development, something that was a key part of his career at Arsenal and now plays a significant role in his management approach at Genoa.
Conclusion – The Legacy of Patrick Vieira
Patrick Vieira’s football career has left a lasting impact both on the pitch and on the sidelines. His leadership at Arsenal, his success with the French national team, and his ongoing managerial journey continue to inspire young players and coaches around the world. With his new challenge at Genoa, Vieira’s legacy is far from over, and his influence on the game will continue to grow in the coming years.
FAQ
Is Patrick Vieira related to Fabio Vieira?
No, Fabio Vieira and Patrick Vieira are not related. They share the same surname, but they come from different families.
What is Patrick Vieira’s current job?
As of November 2024, Patrick Vieira is the head coach of Genoa in Serie A, Italy.
What is Patrick Vieira’s height?
Patrick Vieira stands at 1.93 meters (6 feet 4 inches) tall, a key asset in his playing career, especially in midfield battles.
What was the Roy Keane vs Patrick Vieira rivalry?
The rivalry between Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira was one of the most intense in Premier League history, symbolizing the fierce competition between Manchester United and Arsenal during the 2000s.
How many goals did Patrick Vieira score in his career?
Patrick Vieira scored 45 goals in 456 appearances for club teams during his playing career, contributing significantly to both defensive and attacking play.
Who is Patrick Vieira married to?
Patrick Vieira is married to Cheryl Plaza, and they have children together.