Bella-Kotchap returns to Serie A with Venezia under Stroppa

Defender Armel Bella‑Kotchap has signed for newly promoted Venezia, and coach Francesco Stroppa has installed him as the designated starter in the centre of the defence for the upcoming Serie A campaign. The German international returns to Italy’s top flight after a relegation‑hit season with Verona.

After suffering relegation with Verona, Bella‑Kotchap quickly found a place back in Serie A. He has been appointed the designated starter in the centre of the defence for the newly promoted Venezia, coached by Francesco Stroppa.

In the previous campaign he demonstrated he can compete at the highest level. His capability is underpinned by experience in Germany’s Bundesliga with Bochum and in England’s Premier League with Southampton.

The German international made his debut for the national team in 2022. He is listed as a German international.

In Fantacampionato he is valued at 10 credits. While at Verona last season he featured in 19 matches and recorded a fantasy average of 6.1.

He will line up as the central defender in Stroppa’s back line. He is also capable of slotting in as the right‑hand centre‑back in Venezia’s three‑man defensive shape.

Physical durability remains a question, as he missed half of the previous season’s games because of physical problems. When available, he proved a rock‑solid centre‑back standing 190 cm tall.

Should he regain full fitness, he is expected to deliver a fantasy average around 6 with guaranteed starting minutes. Fantasy managers are advised to acquire him without exceeding two percent of their total budget.

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