Carlo Ancelotti has turned down the chance to manage his home country, Italy, recently. In an interview with Swiss radio RSI, the 65-year-old coach explained his decision. He said that managing a national team felt like a part-time job that would have drained his passion for the sport.
Ancelotti is currently under contract with Real Madrid until next year, but there’s been speculation about him taking over as Brazil’s manager. His comments suggest he’s not interested in the Brazilian job either. “I like being on the training ground every day, preparing sessions,” he said.
Ancelotti was asked about his return to Real Madrid, which he managed previously. He revealed that he had been in touch with the club before his last stint there. “I actually called them,” he explained. “The year before, I spoke to them to see if they had any players available for us, and we signed James Rodriguez at Everton.” Ancelotti told the club’s director that they needed to find a good coach.
Ancelotti shared his early career aspirations. He had dreamed of managing Liverpool but ended up coaching their rivals, Everton. “My dream was to manage Liverpool, but I ended up at Everton, and I experienced the rivalry,” he said. Ancelotti has become a fan of Everton, drawn to the passion of their fans. He noted the suffering of Liverpool supporters, who have endured tough times despite their team’s success in the Premier League over the years.
Early Coaching Dreams
Ancelotti’s time at Everton clearly made an impression on him. He appreciated the atmosphere and the fans’ enthusiasm for the team. “I really enjoyed the environment because there’s a passion for the colors that’s spectacular,” he said.
