Dennis Johnsen extends contract

Venezia FC is pleased to announce that Norwegian international winger Dennis Johnsen has signed a contract extension through the 2024/25 season.

Johnsen, 23, arrived on a free transfer in August 2020 after spending the previous three seasons at Ajax, where he made five first team appearances and 41 reserve team appearances, along with two loan spells at Eredivisie clubs Heerenveen and PEC Zwolle.

Upon his arrival in Venice, Johnsen made an immediate impression with his breathtaking speed and brilliant dribbling. As the young Norwegian adjusted to Italian football, Johnsen would develop into an increasingly important role for manager Paolo Zanetti, whether playing from the start or as a game-changing weapon off the bench. Johnsen ultimately made 37 appearances (22 starts) with four goals and four assists between the Serie B regular season and promotion playoffs, helping Venezia book their return to Serie A for the first time in 19 years. Johnsen capped his season with standout performances in the promotion playoff finals against Cittadella, setting up Francesco Di Mariano’s goal in a 1-0 win in the first leg, then coming on as a substitute in the second leg and running rampant to help turn the tide as a 10-man Venezia side held on to secure a promotion-clinching 1-1 draw.

This season, an ever-improving Johnsen has seamlessly transitioned to Serie A. Establishing himself as a starter in every match through Giornata 8, Johnsen’s fearless and tireless running at defenders from the wings has made him one of the team’s most consistent threats.

Earlier this month, Johnsen’s play was rewarded with his first call-up to Norway’s senior national team, and he would earn his first cap in a 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Montenegro, coming on as a substitute in a 2-0 win.

Congratulations, Dennis.