Venezia coach Eusebio Di Francesco addressed the media ahead of his team’s upcoming match against Cagliari at the Stadio Penzo. The manager discussed the challenges posed by their opponents, recent injuries, and the team’s development.
Di Francesco began by acknowledging Cagliari’s experience and quality: “We expect a team accustomed to fighting for these objectives, with an experienced and skilled coach like Nicola. A compact team, though I’m not sure if they’ll have the same approach as against Atalanta, where they didn’t deserve the final defeat. But they’ll also find a healthy Venezia. We talk about performances, but we need to raise our level of attention.”
Addressing the injury to Svoboda and potential market moves, Di Francesco stated: “It’s premature to talk about the market, although it’s normal for you to ask the question. We’re sorry about what happened, but it’s part of football. I was telling him that he needs to lift his head to come back stronger than before. Then, regarding the market, something will certainly need to be done.”
Reflecting on the recent draw with Juventus, the coach emphasized the need for improvement: “Initially, there was a feeling of disappointment for the two points lost, but subsequently, a more accurate and careful analysis must be made. We need to be smarter; it’s something we still lack, which the boys need to add, even from a psychological point of view. We’ve grown in understanding the moments, but it’s not enough.”
Di Francesco also praised the development of individual players, including Ellertsson and Busio: “Ellertsson is applied, knows he needs to improve on certain phases, and makes physicality his best weapon. Busio is playing extraordinary matches from a physical point of view, I assure you because I see the data of a high-level player. He can take another step in terms of coolness in final choices.”
Regarding defensive options following Svoboda’s injury, Di Francesco mentioned: “As a center-back, Idzes is the ideal substitute for Svoboda. Schingtienne can also do it; he’s working hard. Schingtienne has grown tremendously.”
The coach also addressed Candela’s versatility and the importance of supporting players during challenging times: “Antonio is a player who needs to be helped and supported a lot, I also say this to the people. He’s been very important for Venezia; recently, he’s had some unfavorable episodes. When they’re good and things are going well, it’s easier, but people need to be supported especially in these moments.”
Finally, Di Francesco praised the impact of substitutes, particularly mentioning Crnigoj’s approaching 100th appearance: “The players who are coming on as substitutes are pleasing me more lately. Players who come on need to understand that they can determine and be protagonists. He came here from a period where he played little, but with the right mindset, he’s making himself available to the team, and I’m very happy with him.”
