Venezia FC have closed the circle on Giovanni Stroppa. The head coach, architect of last season’s Serie A promotion, will remain in charge until 30 June 2029 with an automatic one-year extension if certain sporting conditions are met. The long-awaited news arrives at a pivotal moment: with the team top of Serie B on 82 points and 24 wins from 38 games, the club is pushing to solidify its technical and sporting project.

What does Stroppa’s extension entail?

Stroppa’s contract, now running until 2029, includes an automatic renewal clause for the following season if specific sporting targets are met. The 55-year-old coach, widely adored in Venice for his style and man-management, had repeatedly stated he wanted to stay only if the squad matched Serie A standards. The official statement stresses the move «consolidates the continuity of the path begun, strengthening the club’s sporting foundations after the return to Serie A». This move aligns with the targeted signings made in the opening weeks of the transfer window as Venezia FC gears up for life back in the top flight.

Alessio Pozzi arrives as new Venezia FC goalkeeper

Alongside Stroppa’s extension, the club has completed a goalkeeper swap. Alessio Plizzarri, who guarded Venezia’s goal last season, has been loaned to Sudtirol. In comes Alessio Pozzi, 2000-born, signed from Vis Pesaro. The young stopper impressed in Serie C, keeping 12 clean sheets in 35 appearances, a record that convinced the club of his reliability for Serie B competition.

Pozzi joins a squad that has already shown balance, scoring 77 goals while conceding just 31 (+46 goal difference). Venezia FC lead Serie B by a single point over Frosinone with 82 points from 24 wins, 10 draws and four losses in 38 games, and have strung together four straight results (win, draw, win, win) to boot.