Legendary Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti received an honorary degree and the Real Madrid boss was moved to tears, as well as cracking a few jokes. ‘I transmit ideas via persuasion, not by forcing them upon others.’
The University of Parma chose Ancelotti for this honour, where his coaching career really took off in 1996, going on through Juventus, Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, Napoli, Everton and twice Real Madrid.
His next step is already decided too, becoming the first coach in 60 years to become the manager of Brazil from next year.
Wiping away a tear as he stepped up, with legends like Arrigo Sacchi and Ariedo Braida in the hall, Ancelotti inevitably brought his sense of humour to the occasion too.
“I will tell my players to call me Doctor from now on. I come from a family that is genetically predisposed to strong emotion, so it is natural I react this way.”
Ancelotti is famous above all for being one of the best man managers in the sport and discussed how this approach served him well, making him immensely popular among the players he has worked with.
“You cannot train Diego Maradona to dribble better. That is genetic. What you can do with talented players is help them remember the importance of altruism. That is what differentiates a great player from a champion.
“Football helped me improve my relationship with others, learn respect for the rules, for your opponents and your teammates.
“Being a coach above all means knowing how to listen to others, your collaborators and players, then make your own decisions.
“I try to transmit my ideas via persuasion, not by forcing them upon others. I am calm, very patient, and above all I am fortunate to be supported by a great passion for this sport. It is a passion I had at the age of 15 and I still have today.”