Davide Ancelotti: Former Italian Footballer and Assistant Coach
Davide Ancelotti, born on July 22, 1989, in Parma, Italy, is a notable figure in the world of football, recognized for both his brief playing career and his trajectory as an assistant coach. As the son of legendary manager Carlo Ancelotti, Davide has carved out a unique path, blending his passion for the sport with a modern and innovative approach to team management. Currently, he serves as an assistant coach, most notably alongside his father at clubs like Real Madrid and, more recently, with the Brazilian national team. This article explores Davide Ancelotti’s life, career, and impact on football, highlighting his journey from the pitch to the technical sidelines.
Early Life and First Steps in Football
Origins and Family Influence
Davide Ancelotti was born into a family deeply rooted in football. His father, Carlo Ancelotti, is one of the most successful coaches in history, with five Champions League titles and trophies in all five major European leagues. His mother, Luisa Gibellini, was a constant presence in his life until her passing in 2021. Raised in Parma, a city with a strong footballing tradition, Davide grew up immersed in the sport, often accompanying his father to clubs like Parma, Juventus, and Milan.
From a young age, Davide showed interest in following in Carlo’s footsteps. He attended training sessions and matches, absorbing tactical details and locker room dynamics that would later shape his career. This early exposure to elite football inspired him to pursue a playing career while also laying the foundation for his eventual transition to coaching.
Playing Career
Davide began his career in the youth academy of AC Milan, one of Italy’s most prestigious clubs, where his father had starred as both a player and a coach. Playing as a midfielder, Davide displayed technical qualities such as good vision and precise passing, reminiscent of his father’s style as a player. However, he struggled to stand out in the highly competitive environment of Italian football.
After a stint in Milan’s youth system, Davide was loaned out and later permanently transferred to Borgomanero, a smaller Italian club. Despite his dedication, he realized he would not achieve the same level of success as his father as a player. At the age of 20, in 2009, Davide made the decision to retire from playing and explore new avenues in football. This choice marked the beginning of his journey as a coach, where he would find his true calling.
Transition to Coaching
Academic Background and Early Steps
Determined to stay in football, Davide invested in his education. In 2011, at the age of 22, he graduated with a degree in Sports Science, gaining a strong foundation in physiology, physical training, and sports management. This academic background became a cornerstone of his scientific and modern approach to coaching, which would later become one of his defining traits.
His first coaching opportunity came in 2012 when he was appointed as a fitness coach at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where his father was the head coach. Working at PSG, a club on the rise with stars like Zlatan Ibrahimović and Thiago Silva, was a formative experience. Davide learned to manage elite athletes and handle the pressures of a top-tier club.
Role as a Fitness Coach
At PSG, Davide focused on optimizing players’ physical conditioning, leading warm-ups, and collaborating with the technical staff to develop training programs. His hands-on and detail-oriented approach earned him recognition, quickly gaining the trust of players and staff. This early experience was crucial in establishing his credibility in the industry despite his young age.
When Carlo Ancelotti moved to Real Madrid in 2013, Davide followed, taking on the role of assistant fitness coach. Working at Real Madrid, one of the world’s biggest clubs, was a milestone in his career. He had the opportunity to work with stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Luka Modrić, learning to tailor his methods to the needs of world-class players.
Rise as an Assistant Coach
Working with Carlo Ancelotti
The professional relationship between Davide and Carlo Ancelotti is one of the most fascinating aspects of his career. Unlike many assistants, Davide does not merely follow orders. He shares ideas, challenges strategies, and actively contributes to tactical decisions. This dynamic of interdependence is rare and reflects the mutual trust between father and son. In professional settings, Davide rarely refers to Carlo as “father,” treating him as a colleague, which underscores their mutual respect.
After Real Madrid, Davide followed his father to clubs like Bayern Munich, Napoli, and Everton, serving as an assistant coach or fitness coach. At each club, he brought a modern perspective, incorporating data analysis, technology, and physical recovery strategies. His ability to adapt to different cultures and playing styles was key to his success.
Debut as Head Coach
A significant moment in Davide’s career came in 2019 when he stepped in for his father, who was suspended, to manage Napoli in a match against Roma. Despite the 2-1 loss, this experience was a milestone, showcasing his ability to lead a top-tier team. Although he did not yet hold a UEFA Pro License at the time, he demonstrated competence and composure on the sidelines.
In 2023, Davide earned his UEFA Pro License after completing a coaching course in Wales, where he graduated at the top of his class. This achievement solidified his status as a qualified coach, capable of taking on greater responsibilities in the future.
Tactical Contributions and Management Style
A Modern Approach
Davide Ancelotti is known for his calm and analytical approach, much like his father. He values open communication with players and believes in management based on trust and collaboration. His background as a fitness coach has made him an expert in optimizing player performance, using methods grounded in sports science and technology.
At Real Madrid, Davide played a key role in implementing set-piece strategies, working alongside assistant coach Francesco Mauri. His ability to analyze opponents and propose tactical adjustments has been praised by players and colleagues, who describe him as a “secret weapon” within the coaching staff.
Multilingual and Adaptable
Davide speaks five languages—Italian, French, Spanish, German, and English—which facilitates his integration into different countries and cultures. This linguistic ability, combined with his academic background, makes him a versatile professional capable of effectively communicating with players and staff from diverse backgrounds.
Work with the Brazilian National Team
Call-Up to the Canarinho
In May 2025, Davide Ancelotti was announced as an assistant coach for the Brazilian national team, working under his father, Carlo Ancelotti. The decision to join the national team came after a successful career in European clubs but also marked a moment of uncertainty. Initially, Davide had planned to pursue a solo career as a head coach, with rumors of talks with Rangers in Scotland. However, he chose to delay those plans to focus on the Brazilian project.
His arrival in Brazil was met with enthusiasm, particularly due to his reputation as a young and innovative coach. Carlo Ancelotti highlighted Davide’s importance to the team, stating that he “says things others don’t dare to say” and that his youth and experience bring fresh perspectives to the coaching staff.
Challenges and Expectations
Working with the Brazilian national team presents unique challenges. Brazil, a five-time World Cup champion, has a passionate fanbase and sky-high expectations. Alongside Carlo, Davide faces the pressure of qualifying the team for the 2026 World Cup and pursuing a sixth world title. His experience with European clubs, where he managed international stars, has prepared him to handle the talent of players like Vinícius Júnior, Rodrygo, and Neymar.
Davide has also brought his expertise in technology and performance analysis to the national team, implementing modern training and recovery methods. His collaborative approach has been well-received by players, who appreciate his ability to balance technical rigor with an approachable demeanor.
Personal Life and Family Legacy
Marriage and Family Life
In June 2022, Davide married Spanish artist Ana Galocha. The couple has twins, born in 2019, making Carlo Ancelotti a proud grandfather. Davide maintains a private personal life but is known for his love of travel and outdoor activities, such as hiking and boating, traits he shares with his father.
The Ancelotti Legacy
Being Carlo Ancelotti’s son brought opportunities but also challenges. Davide had to prove his worth in an environment where his surname could spark skepticism. His dedication, academic background, and success at elite clubs demonstrate that he is more than just “the coach’s son.” He has earned respect through his own merits, praised by players and colleagues for his competence and professionalism.
Impact and Future
Contributions to Football
Davide Ancelotti has already made his mark on football as an assistant coach, contributing to successes at clubs like Real Madrid, where he played a key role in winning Champions League and La Liga titles. His modern approach, blending science, technology, and human management, positions him as one of the most promising young coaches today.
With the Brazilian national team, Davide has the opportunity to expand his legacy, helping shape the future of Brazilian football. His ability to innovate and adapt tactics to different contexts will be crucial to the team’s success in the World Cup qualifiers and the World Cup itself.
Future Prospects
While currently an assistant, Davide has ambitions to become a head coach. His experience, education, and success at top clubs indicate he is ready to take on leadership roles in the future. Clubs like Rangers have already shown interest, and it is likely that, after his stint with Brazil, he will pursue new challenges as a head coach.
Conclusion
Davide Ancelotti is a testament to how talent, dedication, and a modern approach can transform a football career. From a promising player to a renowned助理教练, he has forged his own path despite the weight of the Ancelotti name. His journey through AC Milan, Borgomanero, PSG, Real Madrid, and now the Brazilian national team reflects his passion for the sport and his ability to tackle complex challenges.
At just 35 years old, Davide has a bright future ahead. Whether continuing as an assistant or taking the helm as a head coach, he is poised to leave a lasting impact on global football. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work and vision, it is possible to exceed expectations and build a legacy of one’s own.
