Carlo Ancelotti is “proud and happy” to have worked at Milan and Real Madrid, misses Zlatan Ibrahimovic and recommends Alex.
Carlo Ancelotti is “proud and happy” to have worked at Milan and Real Madrid, misses Zlatan Ibrahimovic and recommends Alex.
His Merengues will play Atletico Madrid in this month’s Champions League Final, hoping to win their 10th edition.
Milan are second in the all-time charts, having won the trophy seven times in their history.
“I know there is this battle between Milan and Real for who won the most trophies, but I am proud and happy to have sat on the benches of both the most winning sides in the Champions League,” Ancelotti told Milan Channel.
“Every experience I had at Milan was useful, from the semi-final against Inter to the Final we lost to Liverpool in Istanbul. I reminded my lads of that situation during the game with Bayern Munich. It all helps to prepare for a game like that.”
Real Madrid went through with a 4-0 victory in Munich, though the Coach kept his men on their toes after remembering Milan’s 3-0 lead was wiped out in six minutes by Liverpool.
“Everyone was afraid in Madrid before the Bayern match, as they had never got a good result against the Germans. On the other hand, I had the opposite view, because I’d never lost against the Bavarians and I told them that before going on to the field.”
Ancelotti was both a Milan player and Coach when winning the Champions League, so feels he still belongs to the Rossoneri.
“Everyone knows and appreciates our history. Milan are recognised as one of the biggest clubs in the world and my experience with the Rossoneri helps me to deal with big players. It gave me charisma.”
The tactician also won domestic titles at Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
“In London I appreciated the atmosphere, their football in general, the way they approach the sport. There is no violence, all the stadiums are packed and comfortable. I remember they have great respect for things, opponents and stadiums.
“Paris was a different experience. At Milan the organisation was already in place, whereas PSG had to be constructed and a winning mentality created. It arrived with time thanks to the introduction of players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva.
“I miss Zlatan, as he is a unique professional, always ready and focused on the job. Without a professional attitude, talent is not enough. Just look at Cristiano Ronaldo, who has an incredible attention to detail and that is why he’s at the top.”
Milan have been linked with PSG defender Alex and Ancelotti advised his old clubs.
“Alex is a formidable defender who we already tried to sign in 2005-06, as he already underwent a medical at Milan Lab.
“He is one of the best headers of the ball in circulation, but despite being tall he is also very quick in the sprint. I hope for Milan and for him that this move can go through. He’s a top level player who belongs at this top level club.”