David Ducci releases debut thriller Family Stadium | OneFootball

David Ducci, formed at AS Monaco and now a coach, has released his debut novel, Family Stadium, Tome 1: L’Héritage, a football-set thriller.

According to Nice-Matin, it was published on 14 December as the first part of a planned trilogy. The idea dates to the late 1990s when a television project fell through.

Ducci presents it as a psychological and political thriller with football as backdrop, exploring power, money, rivalries and manipulation. Aged 55, he draws on decades in the professional game.

He rejects any autobiographical reading, saying some elements are inspired but the story is largely fictionalised. The book addresses money laundering, match fixing and influence networks, using fiction to explore without naming.

Monaco remains central to his life. A standout memory is the 1986 gala against Real Madrid on National Day, watched from the bench and later cherished, though he regrets never playing competitively, with Jean-Luc Ettori blocking his path.

He hopes one day to return in a strategic leadership role. Published without a major house, promotion leans on his network, with early feedback encouraging. Volume two is under way and targeted before the next World Cup, while he continues work with Saudi Arabia towards 2026 and the 2027 Asian Cup.

Source: Nice-Matin