The 2001-02 campaign was a devastating return to Serie A for Venezia as Leoni alati spectacularly finished 18th, resulting in immediate relegation to Serie B. Despite the club's profound struggles and a defense that conceded 61 goals, the season was defined by the stunning, prolific form of veteran striker Filippo Maniero, whose 18 goals proved a heroic, but ultimately futile, individual effort. His relentless contribution remains an unforgettable, defiant high point in what became a painful chapter of the club's modern history.