Modern Football Managers Must Blend Multiple Styles, Says Davide Ancelotti

Davide Ancelotti, currently serving as assistant manager for Brazil's national team, offers a compelling perspective on the evolution of football management. In an interview with BBC Sport, he articulated that contemporary managers must be chameleons, adept at integrating diverse tactical approaches rather than rigidly adhering to a singular identity. This philosophy stems from his own journey in shaping his coaching style, influenced by a pantheon of modern footballing greats.

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In football, it is difficult to say that one manager inspires you. You take things from different managers

Ancelotti highlighted the pioneering work of Pep Guardiola in possession-based play, Jürgen Klopp's mastery of high pressing, and Roberto De Zerbi's innovative methods in finding space and exploiting positional advantages. He also acknowledged the defensive solidity championed by Diego Simeone and the tactical adaptability demonstrated by Unai Emery. Crucially, he recognizes the enduring influence of his father, Carlo Ancelotti, whose roots lie in Arrigo Sacchi's zonal marking and the classic 4-4-2 formation.

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Pep Guardiola was cutting-edge, a pioneer. You cannot forget Jurgen Klopp in the high pressing, in the triggers

Despite these myriad influences, Davide stressed his commitment to forging his own distinct managerial identity. While acknowledging similarities in character to his father, he asserts his unique approach to the game. He believes the modern game's complexity necessitates a fluid strategy, one that adapts to the specific strengths of the players and the tactical nuances of the opposition, all while staying true to core coaching principles.

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If we speak about superiority, you have to mention Roberto De Zerbi in how to find the third man, the small details that he discovered

Looking ahead, Ancelotti envisions an ideal team capable of excelling across all phases of play. He cites Paris Saint-Germain as an example of a team that successfully balances structure with spontaneity, and intensity with organization. This adaptability, he argues, is the hallmark of successful modern football, where teams must be proficient in build-up play, possession, pressing, and defensive organization. Ultimately, the team's identity, Ancelotti concludes, is a reflection of the coach's priorities and vision instilled on the training ground.

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My father came from the school of Arrigo Sacchi, the zonal defence, the 4-4-2