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CARLO ANCELOTTI has revealed that he declined a major managerial position because it felt “like a part-time job.”
The 65-year-old Italian manager is focused on achieving an impressive turnaround for Real Madrid, who are currently behind Arsenal 3-0, despite facing various challenges in his efforts.
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Ancelotti, who has been at the helm since 2021, discussed his decision to decline the chance to manage the Italian national team in 2018, a position later filled by Roberto Mancini.
In a conversation with Swiss broadcaster RSI, he mentioned this choice was motivated by the fear that it would erode his “passion.”
He stated: “I turned it down as I didn’t feel it was right for me.”
“I genuinely love being on the pitch daily to plan training sessions, and the national team seemed like a part-time role that could diminish my passion.”
“That was my only reason.”
Ancelotti’s contract with the Spanish club runs until 2026.
Despite this, the team is currently struggling to defend their Champions League title and trails Barcelona by four points in La Liga.
Additionally, they are approaching a Copa del Rey final against their rivals later this month, and failing to secure a trophy in any domestic competition could leave them empty-handed this season.
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In such a scenario, the club’s management may not hesitate to part ways with him, regardless of his impressive accomplishments throughout his second term in Madrid.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Real Madrid could target Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso should Ancelotti leave.
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Ancelotti mentioned he would review his future with the club at the conclusion of the season, informing reporters: “I should not comment on my future as my contract is clear.”
“Anything regarding my future will be discussed after the season ends. The club has consistently supported me, especially during tough times.”
Since rejoining Los Blancos, Ancelotti has claimed 11 titles, including two Champions League trophies, two league championships, the Copa del Rey, and the Club World Cup.
The former AC Milan and Chelsea manager arrived at the club from Everton, sharing that he was the one who initiated the dialogue about his return.
He shared: “Actually, I was the one who contacted them.”
“The previous year, I reached out to see if they had any players available, which resulted in James Rodriguez joining us.”
“I knew they were searching for a coach the next year.”
“I spoke with the director and mentioned that they needed to recruit a strong candidate.”
Ancelotti also mentioned that prior to his stint at Everton, he dreamed of coaching Liverpool, but after immersing himself in the rivalry, he now identifies strongly as an Everton supporter.
He remarked: “My ambition was to manage Liverpool, but once I became part of Everton and experienced their rivalry, I am now wholeheartedly an Everton fan.”
“I genuinely appreciated the atmosphere, as the passion for the team’s colors is incredible.”
“You can also feel the hardships that the fans face, especially as Liverpool has thrived in the Premier League for many seasons and continues to do so.”
