Ancelotti, Conte and the tactics of Italian managers
May 15, 2025
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Michael Cox, a respected football tactics writer, joins fellow analysts Mark Carey and Liam Tharme to dissect the contrasting styles of Italian managerial giants Carlo Ancelotti and Antonio Conte. They delve into Ancelotti’s adaptable coaching versus Conte's dominance in domestic leagues. The discussion also touches on Ancelotti's upcoming challenge with Brazil, the tactical innovations shaping Italian football, and the dynamic between individual player capabilities and team strategies in modern football. Insights into tactical evolution and psychological strategies are featured throughout.
Carlo Ancelotti's adaptable management style maximizes individual player potential, enhancing squad harmony and performance in high-stakes matches.
Antonio Conte's success in domestic leagues stems from his high-intensity approach and tactical clarity, but it can become predictable over time.
The contrasting tactical philosophies of Ancelotti and Conte highlight a modern trend in football where flexibility and individual flair often lead to greater success.
Deep dives
Ancelotti's Managing Style
Carlo Ancelotti's management style is characterized by flexibility and adaptability, focusing on maximizing the potential of individual players rather than adhering to rigid tactical formations. He is notable for not falling out with players, which is essential for maintaining harmony within the squad. His ability to speak multiple languages enhances his communication with diverse players, fostering strong relationships. Rather than imposing his tactical philosophy, Ancelotti adjusts his strategies to fit the strengths of his squad, which has proven effective throughout his career.
Success in European Competitions
Ancelotti has a remarkable track record in European competitions, winning multiple Champions League titles with various clubs. His success reflects his capacity to manage high-stakes matches and get the best out of star players during crucial moments. He has often managed clubs with considerable resources, enabling him to push the team's ceiling without significantly raising its floor. This strategic focus has allowed him to achieve consistently high results in knockout tournaments, differentiating him from managers who are more focused on domestic league success.
Contrast with Conte's Approach
Antonio Conte has achieved significant domestic success, quickly turning struggling teams into title winners through a high-intensity approach and tactical clarity. However, his record in Europe contrasts starkly, suggesting challenges in balancing demanding league play with European competition. Conte's tactics often emphasize structure and pattern, which can become predictable for opponents over time. While he fosters strong performances in league formats, his teams may struggle in knockout scenarios where flexibility and adaptability are crucial.
Philosophical Football Approach
The philosophical approach to football by Ancelotti and Conte reflects their differing ideologies. Ancelotti’s player-centric method prioritizes individual flair and adaptability, whereas Conte focuses on structured systems and tactical discipline. Despite the lack of a specific movement or tactical school like 'Tiki-Taka' associated with Ancelotti, his long-standing success across multiple leagues illustrates that results can often trump tactical identity. This indicates a modern football trend where achieving success is not solely dictated by adherence to a specific playing style.
Ancelotti's Future at Brazil
Ancelotti's transition to managing the Brazilian national team comes with its challenges, as the team currently lacks cohesion and performs inconsistently on the international stage. Having to reform a squad with significant weaknesses, particularly in midfield and fullback positions, is a daunting task. The return of Neymar may offer some solutions, but integrating him effectively into a fluid system is critical. Ancelotti's experience in managing high-profile players will be essential in fostering unity and performing at a high level when it matters most.
Ancelotti will be joining the Brazilian men’s national team this summer, drawing his second spell at Real Madrid to a close.
Meanwhile, Antonio Conte could be about to win the Scudetto with a third Italian club… potentially adding Napoli to his successes with Juventus and Internazionale.
Broadly speaking, Ancelotti has been more successful in European competitions — with Conte having a better success rate bringing home the domestic bacon.
But is there something in their tactical philosophies that has caused this? That’s what we talk about in this episode.
