Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he turned down a significant national team management position because he perceived it as less engaging than club football.
The 65-year-old Italian coach is currently focused on leading Real Madrid in a challenging situation, aiming to overturn a 3-0 deficit against Arsenal. However, preparations have been far from ideal.
Ancelotti, who rejoined Real Madrid in 2021, has now spoken about rejecting the opportunity to manage the Italian national team in 2018, a role that eventually went to Roberto Mancini.
In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI, Ancelotti explained his decision, saying he declined the position because he worried it would “lessen his passion” for the sport.
He elaborated, “I declined because I didn`t feel it was right for me at that moment.”
“I deeply enjoy the daily involvement on the pitch, preparing training sessions, and the national team role seemed like a part-time job that could make me lose some of my enthusiasm.”
“That’s the sole reason.”
Ancelotti’s current contract with Real Madrid is set to expire in 2026.
The team is facing an uphill battle to retain their Champions League title and are currently four points behind Barcelona in La Liga.
They are also scheduled to play against Barcelona in the Copa del Rey final later this month. Failing to win at least one of these domestic titles could result in a trophy-less season for Real Madrid, potentially jeopardizing Ancelotti`s position despite his successful tenure.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano has reported that Real Madrid might consider Xabi Alonso, currently managing Bayer Leverkusen, as a replacement for Ancelotti if he departs.
Ancelotti stated that he would discuss his future with the club at the end of the season. He commented to reporters, “I shouldn’t be discussing my future as my contract is quite clear.”
“Whatever happens, it will be addressed at the end of the season. The club has always been supportive, especially during challenging times.”
Since his return to Real Madrid, Ancelotti has accumulated 11 trophies, including two Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, and a Club World Cup.
Prior to rejoining Real Madrid, Ancelotti managed Everton and revealed that he initiated the contact for his Madrid return.
He added, “Actually, I was the one who contacted them.”
“The year before, I had inquired about player availability, which led to the signing of James Rodriguez.”
“I was aware they would be seeking a new coach the following year.”
“I spoke with the director and suggested they needed to find a good one.”
Ancelotti also confessed that he initially dreamed of managing Liverpool, but his experience with Everton and the Merseyside rivalry has made him a dedicated Everton supporter.
He said, “My dream was to coach Liverpool, but after joining Everton and experiencing the rivalry, I am now completely an Everton fan.”
“I genuinely appreciated the atmosphere there because of the incredible passion for the club`s colours.”
“You also notice the deep-seated suffering of the Everton fans in contrast to Liverpool`s consistent success in the Premier League.”
