Di Francesco wants Venezia ‘courage,’ but has Tessmann warning | OneFootball

New Venezia coach Eusebio Di Francesco wants ‘courage and resilience’ from his players, but admits USMNT midfielder Tanner Tessmann is ‘the most difficult player to replace.’

The tactician knows all too well the sting of relegation, as his Frosinone went into the last game of the season needing only a draw to survive, but were beaten at home by Udinese and sent down by a last-gasp Empoli victory on the same evening.

He is back in the top flight with a new role at Venezia, who were promoted from Serie B via the play-offs before coach Paolo Vanoli left to join Torino.

“I thank Frosinone, the extraordinary lads and fans who made me feel like one of them in a year that was not fortunate,” said Di Francesco in his presentation press conference.

“I don’t want to look for alibis, but we did not deserve that relegation. I hope Frosinone can get back into Serie A soon.”

Di Francesco starts new era for Venezia

As for Venezia, they are backed by American owners and return to the top flight for the first time since 2022.

“It is a small club, but a big one in terms of organisation. I met with the players and asked them to be at my disposal as the first, fundamental thing. We need courage and resilience, we can get there with hard work and fairness.

“Over the course of a campaign, you see things that you don’t like. I will ask my players to have respect for themselves and for the jersey they are wearing.”

There are reports that USMNT midfielder Tessmann is on the verge of a transfer to Inter, although he could be allowed to remain with Venezia or be loaned elsewhere for this season.

“I think Tessmann is the most difficult player to replace. We can get someone close to his characteristics, but we are not interested in some copy and paste substitute. It will be important that we don’t get that choice wrong.

“The important thing is that we have two players for each role and I hope they will be here as soon as possible,” concluded Di Francesco.