Has something changed recently? I was denied lounge access in VRN last year, but then I suddenly realised I still have some free passes with my Diners M&M card, so I got in.
However you can really skip the lounge as it's before security and there's basically nothing inside.
I'd rather arrive at the airport just 30 minutes before boarding starts. It's absolutely better to spend some more time in Verona than visit the lounge.