Stroppa: Venezia's Table Position Doesn't Match Performance; We Need to Capitalize on Chances

Giovanni Stroppa acknowledges Venezia's dire situation with zero points from five matches, suggesting he could be dismissed. However, he insists that "the table does not reflect the performances," citing their 2-0 loss to Lazio as an example.

Venezia struggled to convert numerous scoring chances in the first half. A penalty taken by John Yeboah, which was saved by Lazio's Christos Mandas, highlighted this issue. There was some confusion over who should take the penalty, with Akor Adams also wanting to step up, until Stroppa instructed Yeboah from the sideline.

Lazio secured the win after halftime with a penalty from Mattia Zaccagni and a header from Tijjani Noslin.

“The table does not reflect the performances of the team,” Stroppa told Sky Sport Italia. “Look at the statistics: we had six shots on target, Lazio had two, and we lost 2-0. The first half was exceptional; we were well-prepared, and the players executed the plan perfectly.

“The penalty could have been a turning point, but we didn't make the most of it. Lazio, however, converted their penalty. Even after that, the team maintained its belief and structure, but we still lost 2-0.”

Reports have suggested Stroppa might be the next Serie A coach to face dismissal, following Fabio Grosso and Domenico Tedesco.

“If I were the President, I would not remove the coach, as the work we’ve done is evident. I am primarily disappointed that I don’t have all the players available,” Stroppa commented. “Of course, the decision isn't mine. We’ll see what influences the choice – the results or the daily work.”

Key players absent include Gianluca Busio, Ridgeciano Haps, Andrea Adorante, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Marin Sverko, Bartol Franjic, and former Lazio midfielder Toma Basic.

Venezia sits at the bottom of the league with five losses in five games, having scored only four goals and conceded 13. This marks their worst season start since 2001/02.

“Our standing in the table could be very different given the chances we created over these five games. I receive no negative signals from the squad, but the numbers are unforgiving. We played against Lazio, one of the league's top teams right now, yet we created significantly and conceded very little. We must convert those chances.”

The team is creating opportunities but making too many individual errors at both ends of the pitch.

“Regarding the goal from Noslin, the goalkeeper perhaps could have come out for the cross. Juan Jesus provided significant support today with his communication and tempo control.”

Coaches reportedly considered for the Stadio Penzo job include Igor Tudor and Roberto D’Aversa. Stroppa led Venezia to win Serie B and secure promotion last season.