OFFICIAL: Lecce sack D'Aversa for headbutting Verona's Henry

Lecce are going through a difficult time in sporting terms. They are on the verge of relegation, have gone several weeks without a win and this has caused tension, which led to an unfortunate incident during this weekend's match against Hellas Verona. After the final whistle, a brawl broke out which, at first, confused the fans. Little did they know that it all stemmed from a head-butt by coach Roberto d'Aversa on player Thomas Henry.

The video in which you can see how he assaults the player was broadcasted on 'Sky Sport', whose journalists warned that the board was not at all happy with the attitude of their manager. In fact, shortly after the incident, they issued a statement condemning his actions. On Monday morning, another was issued to notify that the coach has been sacked despite the fact that he had a contract until the summer.

"Following the events at the end of the Lecce-Verona match, US Lecce announces that head coach Roberto d'Aversa has been relieved of his duties. Thanks to the coach and his staff for the work done," reads the brief statement, which could have been given in any case because of the poor results of a team that has to find a new leader for the remaining three months of the competition.

D'Aversa thus ends his time at the fourth Italian team he has managed in his career. His career began at Virtus Lanciano, from where he moved to Parma, the longest-serving club of his playing career. He went on to manage Sampdoria before accepting the position from which he has just been dismissed. The main stumbling block, now, centres on the poor image he has offered, which may condition future jobs.

 

March 11, 2024