Serie B president Mauro Balata is backing Genoa to surprise fans this season.

Genoa won promotion back to Serie A at first shot after changing coaches in midseason as rookie Alberto Gilardino stepped in for Alexander Blessin after his dismissal.

Gilardino, despite his lack of experience, inspired his Genoa players to promotion back to the Italian top-flight. The board later recognised Gilardino's achievement by handing him a new deal for season 2023/24.

Watching developments last season was Balata, who believes Genoa are right to stick with Gilardino for the new campaign.

He told Tribalfootball.com: “After a start to the championship, when they did not live up to their potential, Genoa found the right balance with the new coach and former world champion Alberto Gilardino.

"He deservedly led his team to direct promotion to the top flight."

Balata, who also holds an official role with Italy U21s and has worked within the local youth development system, admits it's good for Italian football seeing Genoa back in Serie A. Balata is partcularly hopeful Gilardino will maintain the club's youth traditions.

He added,"(Genoa is) an important club with a top-level sports organisation. We see this demonstrated by the many young players from the academy consistently called up for the national teams in their age-groups."

Genoa kicked off their Serie A return on Saturday with a 4-1 home defeat to Gilardino's former club Fiorentina.