Lille announced Monday that Davide Ancelotti, assistant coach with Brazil’s national team and son of Carlo Ancelotti, will take charge of the French club following Bruno Genesio’s departure last week. The 36 year‑old has signed a two‑year contract, though the club did not clarify whether he will remain with Brazil’s staff through the World Cup, scheduled for June 11 to July 19.
Ancelotti, who previously spent six months as head coach of Botafogo in Brazil, said he was honored by the appointment. “I’m very proud and happy. It’s an honour to represent Lille. They are a serious, ambitious, competitive club who are regularly playing European football,” he said.
The AC Milan academy product will oversee Lille’s return to the Champions League after the team finished third in Ligue 1, 15 points behind champions Paris Saint‑Germain. His arrival is seen as part of the club’s effort to strengthen its European credentials and build on recent domestic success.
Club officials highlighted Ancelotti’s experience working alongside his father at Real Madrid, Everton and now Brazil, noting that his exposure to elite football environments could bring fresh tactical ideas to Lille. His appointment reflects a growing trend of younger coaches stepping into high‑profile roles across Europe, often blending traditional methods with modern approaches.
The new Ligue 1 season begins the weekend of August 22‑23, giving Ancelotti limited time to prepare his squad for both domestic and continental challenges. Supporters are expected to watch closely how he balances his commitments with Brazil and his new responsibilities in France, particularly as Lille aims to make an impact in the Champions League group stage.
The move underscores Lille’s ambition to remain competitive in Europe’s elite competitions while offering Ancelotti a platform to establish himself independently in the coaching world. His success could mark a significant step in his career and add another chapter to the Ancelotti family’s influence on global football, which already spans decades and multiple continents.
