Davide Ancelotti Takes the Helm at Botafogo
In a significant move for Brazilian football, Davide Ancelotti , the son of famed coach Carlo Ancelotti, has been appointed as the head coach of Botafogo . This announcement came on Tuesday from the club, marking a new chapter in the young coach’s career as he takes over from Portuguese coach Renato Paiva .
Davide , who is 35 years old, is stepping into the role of head coach for the first time. Until now, he has accompanied his father in various prestigious clubs, including Real Madrid (2021-2025), Everton (2019-2021), Napoli (2018-2019), and Bayern Munich (2016-2017) as an assistant coach.
“Welcome, Ancelotti!” read a post on Botafogo’s social media platforms, accompanied by an Italian flag emoticon. The announcement confirmed that he signed a contract with the team that will keep him at the club until the end of 2026. This highlights the club’s belief in his potential and ambition.
In a press release, Botafogo described Davide Ancelotti as a “young coach, prepared, and with a strong ambition to build his own legacy.” They emphasized his global perspective, noting that he has gained substantial experience from working at some of the world’s most significant clubs alongside his father.
Interestingly, Davide’s contract allows him to continue serving in a dual capacity, as he will also act as an assistant coach for the Brazilian national team . This role, as part of the Technical Commission directed by his father, was assumed just a month ago. Coexistence of both roles shows the flexibility and support from both the club and national team.
The Brazilian Soccer Confederation ( CBF ) acknowledged the negotiations regarding Davide’s appointment and confirmed that they had released him for this new role. Importantly, the CBF has an agreement in place that will allow him to return to the national team promptly, especially as preparations ramp up for the 2026 World Cup .
Davide Ancelotti replaces Renato Paiva , who was let go following the team’s disappointing exit in the Round of 16 of the U.S. Club World Cup . This dismissal prompted a search for fresh leadership, and the club has placed its confidence in Davide’s abilities to turn the team’s fortunes around.
After arriving in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday morning, the new coach met with the professional team in the afternoon, engaging in his first training session. This serves as a crucial initial step in establishing his presence and leadership style within the squad.
In addition to hiring Davide, Botafogo has also brought in a talented supporting staff. Luis Tevenet from Spain and British coach Andrew Magan will join him as assistants, with Luca Guerra , an Italian, stepping in as the physical trainer. This diverse coaching team aims to bring a blend of strategies and philosophies to the pitch.
Before his coaching journey, Davide worked as a physical trainer alongside his father at Real Madrid (2013-2015) and Paris Saint-Germain (2012-2013). His background contributes a useful blend of tactical acumen combined with an understanding of physical development in players.
As a show of support, his father Carlo Ancelotti took to social media to wish his son good luck in his new role. “We will follow you closely with all the love in the world. Strength!” he wrote, indicating the tight familial bond and the father’s pride in his son’s accomplishments.
The appointment of Davide Ancelotti as head coach of Botafogo presents an exciting opportunity for both the young coach and the club. As he embarks on this journey, the football community will be watching closely to see how he implements his vision and strategies to lift Botafogo’s fortunes. Under his guidance, there is hope for a new era of ambition and success for the club, one that could potentially redefine their place in Brazilian football. Botafogo, infused with fresh energy and direction, stands ready for the challenges ahead.