During his time in Veneto, Firmani headed south for a year, spending the 1998–99 campaign on loan at Reggina Calcio and splitting 2001–02 between A.C. Chievo Verona (co-ownership with Vicenza) and Bologna F.C. 1909. After competing in Serie B in 2002–03 with S.S.C. Venezia, he was finally released and joined Calcio Catania, helping them to two mid-table positions in the competition.