Real Madrid are set to appoint Andy Mangan, the 38-year-old assistant coach at Stockport County, to Carlo Ancelotti’s coaching team according to The Athletic. This unexpected addition bridges the gap between English lower-league football and one of the world’s most prestigious clubs, signalling a shift in Real Madrid’s coaching strategy.
From Lower Leagues to the Bernabeu
Mangan’s journey to the Santiago Bernabéu is nothing short of remarkable. With his entire playing career spent in the lower tiers of English football, he made over 300 appearances across England’s third, fourth, and fifth tiers for clubs like Fleetwood Town, Wrexham, and Tranmere Rovers.
His coaching career has followed a similar path, starting with a role on Fleetwood’s first-team coaching staff in 2019. He then moved to Bristol Rovers as a first-team coach and even had a brief spell as caretaker manager in late 2023. Most recently, Mangan has been instrumental in developing attackers at Stockport County, contributing to their current position at the top of the League One table.
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The Ancelotti Factor
The driving force behind Mangan’s appointment is the Ancelotti family. Carlo Ancelotti and his son, Davide, who serves as an assistant coach, have been actively seeking ways to upgrade their coaching resources. Davide’s growing influence at Real Madrid is highly valued by the board, who appreciate the modern approach he brings to his father’s management style.
Mangan’s connection to the Ancelottis stems from his close relationship with Davide, with whom he completed his coaching qualifications. This personal link, combined with Mangan’s extensive experience in the English Football League, made him an ideal candidate for the role.
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A Fresh Approach for Los Blancos
Real Madrid’s decision to appoint Mangan is part of a broader effort to refresh their coaching setup after three seasons of stability under Ancelotti. The Italian manager and his son have been impressed by the depth and specificity of coaching resources available in the Premier League during their time in England.
While Real Madrid’s staff may not reach the extensive numbers seen in some English clubs, Mangan’s addition represents a significant step towards incorporating fresh ideas and methodologies. This move also highlights Real Madrid’s commitment to innovation and their willingness to look beyond traditional sources for coaching talent.
