Uncategorized

Carlo Ancelotti Turns Down Big Position at Real Madrid Due to Uncertainty: ‘Felt Like a Side Gig’

CARLO ANCELOTTI has revealed that he declined a notable managerial opportunity because it seemed “like a part-time job.”

The 65-year-old Italian coach is determined to lead Real Madrid to a stunning resurgence, despite currently trailing Arsenal 3-0 and facing various challenges in his preparations.

VILLARREAL, SPAIN - MARCH 15: Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Real Madrid, looks on during the Spanish league, LaLiga EA Sports, football match played between Villarreal CF and Real Madrid CF at La Ceramica stadium on March 15, 2025, in Villarreal, Spain. (Photo By Irina R. Hipolito/Europa Press via Getty Images)

2

Carlo Ancelotti has said he rejected the Italian national team job in 2018
Carlo Ancelotti, head manager of Real Madrid.

2

He said he thought it might ‘make me lose a bit of my passion’Credit: Rex

Ancelotti, who has been with the club since 2021, shared insights about how he turned down the chance to coach the Italian national team in 2018, before Roberto Mancini took over.

In an interview with Swiss broadcaster RSI, he expressed that he rejected the role as he felt it might undermine his “passion.”

He elaborated: “I turned it down because it didn’t sit well with me.

“I love being on the pitch every day, preparing training sessions, and the national team felt like a part-time role that could dampen my passion.

“That was my only reason.”

Ancelotti’s contract with the Spanish club extends until 2026.

However, Real Madrid is currently struggling to defend their Champions League title and sits four points behind Barcelona in La Liga.

In addition, they are preparing to face their rivals in the Copa del Rey final later this month, and if they cannot secure a victory against Barcelona in at least one of the domestic tournaments, they risk finishing the season without any trophies.

BEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UK

Should that occur, the club’s unforgiving management may not hesitate to part ways with him, despite his impressive achievements during his second term in Madrid.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has indicated that Real Madrid might turn to Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso if Ancelotti were to leave.

How Declan Rice can be ‘world class’ AGAIN vs Real Madrid | Tactics Exposed Deano’s Decision

Ancelotti mentioned he would address his future with the club at the end of the season, stating to reporters: “I don’t feel the need to comment on my future, as the contract is very clear.

“Anything that happens will be discussed at the end of the season. The club has consistently supported me, especially during difficult periods.”

Since rejoining Los Blancos, Ancelotti has clinched 11 titles, including two Champions League trophies, two league titles, the Copa del Rey, and the Club World Cup.

The former AC Milan and Chelsea manager arrived at the club from Everton and revealed that he initiated the discussions for his return.

He remarked: “Actually, I was the one who reached out to them.

“The previous year, I had approached them to see if they had any players available, and that eventually led to us signing James Rodriguez.

“I knew they were searching for a coach the following year.

“I spoke with the director and emphasized that they required a strong hire.”

Ancelotti also shared that prior to joining the Toffees, he had a dream of managing Liverpool, but after witnessing the rivalry firsthand, he has since become “absolutely” an Everton supporter.

He commented: “My aspiration was to coach Liverpool, but once I was at Everton and experienced their rivalry, I now consider myself absolutely an Everton fan.

“I genuinely appreciated the atmosphere, as there’s an incredible passion for the colors.

“You can also feel the struggles the fans go through for Liverpool, a club that has excelled in the Premier League for numerous years and continues to thrive.”