Genoa president Enrico Preziosi has blasted coach Alberto Malesani after a disappointing start to the season.

The patron spent big over the summer and brought in Malesani from Bologna, but they only scraped a 2-2 draw at home against newly-promoted Atalanta.

"I tell Malesani that he must never let me see a first half like that again," raged Preziosi.

"It was horrible, particularly the use of Juraj Kucka. I realise a player is like an engine that needs time to get into gear, but this was awful.

"Genoa have the squad to put in a great campaign, but if we just consider the first half then we belong in a school yard. At least we improved after the break.

"Every team will cause us problems, whether they are Atalanta, Siena or Novara. As for my statements, Malesani can relax, as his job is safe, but I had to comment on that first half."