The Davide Ancelotti leaves Botafogo news has sent ripples through the Brazilian football scene this Wednesday, December 17, 2025. After just five months in his first head coaching role, the 36-year-old Italian strategist has officially parted ways with the Rio de Janeiro-based club. The decision follows a series of disappointing outcomes that saw the club fail to defend its Copa Libertadores and Campeonato Brasileiro titles.
Reports surrounding the Davide Ancelotti leaves Botafogo departure suggest the primary cause was a disagreement over the backroom staff. Ancelotti reportedly expressed strong dissatisfaction after the club’s board decided to dismiss physical trainer Luca Guerra, who had been under fire for a high number of muscle injuries within the squad. When Botafogo refused to retain the entire technical committee, Ancelotti chose to step down, maintaining that he would only lead the team if his full staff remained intact.
During his brief tenure, the Davide Ancelotti leaves Botafogo era produced a record of 14 wins, 11 draws, and 7 defeats across all competitions. While the team showed flashes of tactical brilliance—including an unbeaten 10-game streak toward the end—the early exits from continental competition and a sixth-place league finish were deemed insufficient by owner John Textor. Critics noted that while the Italian brought high-intensity European training methods, they often clashed with the grueling travel and match schedule of the Brazilian season.
As the Davide Ancelotti leaves Botafogo saga concludes, the coach is expected to return to his role as an assistant for the Brazilian national team, working alongside his father, Carlo Ancelotti. Meanwhile, Botafogo has confirmed that a new coaching staff will be announced “shortly” to begin preparations for the 2026 season. This exit marks a challenging end to a highly anticipated managerial debut, leaving fans to wonder who will take the reins of the “Alvinegra” family next.
