Brief

Venezia appoints Davide Nicola in bid to escape relegation

The club gave Nicola a two‑year deal as it prepares for matches against Napoli, Inter Milan and Como.

By Felo News Desk · Published Thu, 15 Oct 2026 03:58:43 GMT

Serie A side Venezia announced on Wednesday that Davide Nicola has been appointed head coach, replacing Giovanni Stroppa, in an effort to reverse a disastrous start to the 2026‑27 season.

What happened

Venezia, sitting bottom of the league with zero points after six matches, 16 goals conceded and five scored, hired the 53‑year‑old Nicola on a two‑year contract that runs to the end of the 2027‑28 season. His first fixtures will include games against Napoli, Inter Milan and Como within the next four matches.

What the reports add

The Associated Press notes that Nicola is known as an “escape specialist”, having helped Crotone, Salernitana and Empoli avoid relegation in recent seasons. The report also mentions that this is the fourth coaching change in Serie A this season, following appointments at Fiorentina, Bologna and Parma.

What was said

In a club statement, Nicola said, “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,” and added, “I’m incredibly enthusiastic and hungry for success.” He also said, “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.”

How it came about

Stroppa was dismissed after the team failed to earn any points in the opening six games. Venezia’s management turned to Nicola, hoping his past record of steering clubs clear of relegation can provide the turnaround the club urgently needs.

Key facts

Venezia hired Davide Nicola as head coach on Wednesday. (winnipegfreepress.com)
The club has zero points after six Serie A matches, conceding 16 goals and scoring five. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Nicola signed a two‑year contract running to the end of the 2027‑28 season. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Nicola previously helped Crotone, Salernitana and Empoli avoid relegation. (winnipegfreepress.com)