Gilardino has been sacked and replaced by Patrick Vieira at the Serie A strugglers.
Referencing promotion to Serie A, he posted to social media: "Ciao GenoA!
“I want to salute you and thank everyone who believed in me, as a coach and first of all as a man. Thank you to all the players who over these years experienced the long and exciting journey, to my two faithful allies Tano and Dario, and all of my staff.
“Thank you from the heart to all the people who work at the Pio centre with dedication and passion, constantly for the good of the team.
“Thank you to the entire population of Genoa supporters, tireless soul and pulsating heart of the Grifone, thank you for making me feel part of something unique and extraordinary.
“I will carry you in my heart, always. Gila.”