In an emotional press conference that left the football world shaken, Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti offered a rare and deeply personal update about his daughter Katia, who has been battling lupus since 2021.
Holding back tears, the legendary manager shared that his 29-year-old daughter has been bedridden for several months, bravely fighting the incurable autoimmune disease. “She’s fighting every day,” Ancelotti said softly. “It’s not something a father ever prepares for. But Katia… she’s stronger than all of us.”
Ancelotti, known for his calm demeanor on the touchline and his composed leadership in high-pressure matches, showed a different side of himself — that of a father grappling with pain far beyond the football pitch.
“Football is my job, my passion,” he said, “but my daughter’s health is my life. Every day she teaches me what true strength looks like. She does it without asking for attention. Her fight is silent — but so, so powerful.”
Lupus: A Silent and Complex Enemy
Katia was first diagnosed with lupus — a chronic autoimmune condition — in 2021. The disease causes the immune system to attack healthy tissue, leading to inflammation and damage to various parts of the body. While lupus can be managed, there is currently no known cure, and symptoms can be both physically and emotionally draining.
“She has good days and bad days,” Ancelotti added. “But the past few months have been hard. She’s been mostly in bed, unable to move much, but still smiling whenever she sees me.”
Football World Sends Love and Support
Following the press conference, an outpouring of support flooded social media. Real Madrid stars including Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Jr., and Luka Modrić posted messages of love and solidarity. Clubs from around the world, including Barcelona, AC Milan, and PSG, also sent their well wishes.
Vinícius Jr. wrote: “We play for you, Mister. And we pray for Katia. Stay strong.”
Barcelona’s official account posted: “Rivalries aside, our hearts are with Carlo and his family. Força Katia.”
Fans at the Santiago Bernabéu are planning a 29th-minute applause during Madrid’s next home game — a touching tribute to Katia’s age and courage.
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As Real Madrid prepares for the upcoming La Liga season, Ancelotti remains a pillar of strength — not just for his team, but for his family.
“I don’t know what tomorrow brings,” he said. “But I know my daughter is a warrior. And I will always be by her side.”
For a man who has lifted Champions League trophies and coached legends, this is perhaps his most profound battle — the battle of a father standing beside his daughter through her darkest fight.
