Venezia turn to relegation specialist Davide Nicola

Venezia have named Davide Nicola as their new head coach, handing one of Serie A's most experienced "firefighters" a two-year deal as they scramble for their first point of the season.

According to the club's official statement, Nicola has signed a contract that takes effect tomorrow and runs until the end of the 2027-28 season. He replaces Giovanni Stroppa, who was sacked after Monday's 3-1 defeat at Atalanta left the Lagunari bottom of the table with six losses from six league games.

Stroppa had guided Venezia back to the top flight in May, but the club opted for a change before their next outing against Napoli.

A CV built on survival

Nicola's record makes him a natural fit for a relegation scrap. He secured historic survival with Crotone, then lifted Genoa from the foot of the table to safety. He repeated the trick at Torino and, most memorably, with Salernitana in 2021-22. He also kept Empoli up after arriving in January 2024 and led Cagliari to 15th in 2024-25. His last spell, at Cremonese, ended with his dismissal in March, with the club third from bottom.

Why Venezia?

"I chose Venezia because I see a long-term vision, a strong desire to build something meaningful, and significant opportunities for growth at this club," Nicola told Venezia's official channels.

He said director Antonelli had been decisive in swaying his decision.

"The presence of Director Antonelli, whom I already knew, also played a decisive role in my decision, as he made me feel wanted," he explained. "I've watched the team play in these opening matches, and I've seen a positive chemistry among the players."

The coach made his target clear.

"As for me, I'm incredibly enthusiastic and hungry for success. I have an immense desire to get back out on the pitch and achieve our goal of securing survival."

"In my profession, what matters most to me is the ability to create emotions and write chapters of history that will stand the test of time," he added. "That must be our goal, and we have to achieve it together with our fans."

Nicola brings technical assistant Manuele Cacicia, fitness coach Gabriele Stoppino and goalkeeping coach Lorenzo Squizzi with him.