After being the 'architect' of the Liga-Champions League double achieved by Real Madrid last season, Carlo Ancelotti has been recognised as the coach of the year at the Ballon d'Or gala held at the Théâtre Châtelet in Paris. The Italian beat Luis de la Fuente, Pep Guardiola, Xabi Alonso, Scaloni and Gasperini in votes to add a new award to his trophy cabinet.
An award that, by the way, marks a precedent as it is the first time in history that France Football has honoured the most outstanding coach of the season. At 65 years of age and with three decades in charge, 'Carletto' adds the now-named Johan Cruyff Trophy to his long list of honours.
Ancelotti did not collect the award
A success that has been marred by the coach's absence to collect the award. After Rodri Hernández's victory over Vinicius Jr. was leaked, the Real Madrid delegation cancelled the trip to Paris and no club representatives were present at the event.
Upon learning of his victory, Ancelotti sent a brief message through his official media in which he thanked his family, the club and left a 'wink' to the Merengue '7' and Dani Carvajal. "I want to thank my Family, my President, my Club, my Players and above all Vini and Carvajal," were the words of the Real Madrid coach.