Italian Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Real Madrid, is constantly appreciated by fans and the media for the successes he brings to the team. However, the unknown soldier behind Carlo's achievements is his son David, who serves as an assistant coach for the white team. David's contributions are beginning to make a mark in the media and among fans, highlighting his exceptional role in the success his father enjoys at the "Santiago Bernabéu."
**Failed Player**
David began his football journey following in his father's footsteps as a player and became a professional midfielder with Milan. After some loan spells and a transfer to Borgomanero, he decided to retire from football at the age of 20, ending his playing career before it had really begun in 2009. David then chose to pursue coaching and, at the age of 22, earned a degree in sports science.
**Entering the Coaching World**
David's first coaching experience came in 2012 when he was appointed fitness coach at Paris Saint-Germain, alongside his father, who was the head coach at the time. After Carlo moved to coach Real Madrid, David joined him as a fitness coach as well. David obtained his UEFA A license in 2016 and became an assistant coach for the first time during Carlo’s tenure with Bayern Munich. He has remained his father's assistant ever since.
**The Secret Weapon**
Occasionally, Carlo has revealed in press conferences the role of his son David in tactical matters during matches. Ancelotti previously stated, "Everything related to the technical side is discussed in real-time; I intervene more on tactical matters during matches, but not all the time, and David often takes on that role for me."
David's importance in Real Madrid has grown day by day, as Carlo has granted him the authority to intervene in training if he notices something wrong, allowing him to halt sessions. Reports indicate that players trust him, appreciate his abilities, and often engage in long discussions with him. One of David's most significant contributions has been developing the team's set-piece execution, which has proven to be a crucial weapon for Madrid this season, with many goals scored from corners leading to various victories both domestically and continentally. He also helped improve the defensive system despite the challenging absences the team faced early in the season due to injuries to Militao and Alaba.
**Clear Imprints**
Beyond tactical matters, David's influence in critical moments this season has been decisive for Real Madrid's fortunes. He was the key figure in eliminating Manchester City from the Champions League in the quarter-finals, as he completely selected the penalty takers to ensure goal conversions. Additionally, against Bayern Munich in the semi-finals, particularly in the return leg at the Bernabéu, he made a crucial decision. In the 80th minute, Carlo asked for his son’s opinion on making a substitution, and David immediately suggested bringing on Joselu, who scored two goals to help Madrid advance to the final.
**Enticing Offers**
David Ancelotti's reputation has surged over recent months, making him a target for various clubs in Spain and Europe. He received offers from Swiss club Basel, French club Reims, and Spanish club Sevilla, alongside connections to clubs in the Saudi league. Fans of Real Madrid have consistently worried about David potentially leaving the coaching staff after everything he has contributed over the past years. Carlo ultimately resolved the speculation, confirming that his son will remain by his side until his last day as coach of Real Madrid.
