Carlo Ancelotti

Title: "Carlo Ancelotti: The Beautiful Game of an Ordinary Genius" (also known as "Carlo Ancelotti: The Beautiful Games of an Ordinary Genius")

Authors: Carlo Ancelotti, Alessandro Alciato

Foreword by: Paolo Maldini

Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

Publication Date: October 2010

Format: eBook and Hardcover

Pages: 272 pages (eBook), 240 pages (Hardcover)

Key Themes

1. Soccer Career: The book delves into Carlo Ancelotti's extensive career in soccer, covering his playing days at Parma, Roma, and Milan, as well as his managerial triumphs[1][2][5].
2. Italian and English Football: Ancelotti provides candid insights into the differences between Italian and English football, offering a unique perspective on the two styles of play[1][2].
3. Personal Anecdotes: The autobiography is filled with humorous self-deprecation and personal anecdotes, making it an entertaining read[1][2].
4. Managerial Success: The book highlights Ancelotti's managerial achievements, including his successes with top teams in Italy and England[1][2].

Plot Summary

The autobiography offers a comprehensive look at Carlo Ancelotti's life and career in soccer. It covers his early days as a player, his time with prominent Italian clubs like Parma, Roma, and Milan, and his transition into coaching. The book also explores his managerial successes, including his time at Chelsea and Real Madrid. Ancelotti shares stories about his experiences, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned throughout his career. The narrative is engaging and provides a deep understanding of both the game and the man, earning him the nickname "the ordinary genius"[1][2][5].

Critical Reception

The book has received positive reviews from critics:

• Jonathan Northcroft (Sunday Times, UK): Described the book as "a riot; frank, anecdotal, dripping with hilarious self-deprecation"[1].
• Henry Winter (Daily Telegraph, UK): Called it "hugely entertaining"[1].
• Paul Doyle (Guardian, UK): Praised it as "smart and surprising"[1].
• Frommer Luxury Travel: Noted that the book is "something to learn on each page about 'the beautiful game' and the man some call 'the ordinary genius'"[1].

The book was also longlisted for the William Hill Sports Book of the Year Award in 2011, indicating its significant impact and recognition in the sports literature community[5].

Overall, "Carlo Ancelotti: The Beautiful Game of an Ordinary Genius" is a well-regarded autobiography that offers a unique blend of personal anecdotes, managerial insights, and a deep understanding of the sport, making it a must-read for both soccer enthusiasts and those interested in a well-told tale.