After collecting five major league titles and winning the Champions League title and many other honors, Ancelotti chose to go to Brazil to coach the Selecao.
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, Ancelotti talked about the World Cup, Champions League and other topics.
About the Italian National Team
Italy will once again strive to qualify through the play-offs, which will be a difficult contest. I hope they make it and they have to. Frankly, I believe they can do it and then we can meet in the final, which will make all Italians, Brazilians and myself very happy. To me, that would be very wonderful emotionally.
About the favorites to win the World Cup
Strong teams such as France, Spain, England, Germany, Argentina and Portugal are still on the list, and they are also old faces in the World Cup. But with the addition of 48 participating teams, there will definitely be many surprises. Tomorrow we play Senegal, who beat England 3-1 and are very strong. Likewise, Morocco performed extremely well. We must be fully prepared.
About World Cup expansion
Increasing the number of competition rounds will help increase the popularity and appeal of the sport because it can expand the fan base, which is a positive side. From a competitive perspective, the schedule is well organized and does not significantly increase the number of games. In fact, it is just one more round. I expect this will be a wonderful World Cup, especially the geographical impact of the draw results is worthy of attention. After all, the game will be played in three countries, and the choice of game location may have an important impact.
About Serie A
Serie A is very exciting and balanced. It is really a surprise that Roma is currently leading the league. Gasperini has Wesley in his team and I have Juan, the former Roma player, in my team. We often discuss Roma's situation and I'm happy to see them at the top.
Opinions on Milan
Milan performed very well, taking full advantage of not having a European war and Allegri's pragmatism. Allegri simplified many complex problems, which are actually not difficult.
About Modric's form
I am very happy that Modric is maintaining a high level, which is not surprising to me at all. I know he will do well because he has World Cup targets, plays only one game a week and was the only player in my Real Madrid squad last season who didn't miss a single training session.
As to whether Modric is a phenomenon or because Serie A is suitable for veterans
Don't be ridiculous, Modric is still at the top level and is still one of the best midfielders. I heard he's talking about a contract extension and he can definitely play for another year.
About Juventus
Juventus is a very competitive team, especially with Spalletti, although Tudor also did a good job. Juve need to find consistency and Spalletti's experience can help them. Serie A is very balanced, which reduces the number of points needed to win the title. Here in Brazil, Palmeiras and Flamengo both scored 68 points in the final stage and could win the championship with less than 80 points. While this won't be the case in Italy, the threshold for success will be lowered and many teams will have a chance, including those currently lagging behind.
As for which team has the most hope of winning the championship
Inter Milan and Naples, although Naples has lost a few games, they are still very strong. Then there are Roma, Milan and Juventus who will compete until the end.
About Conte’s choice to take a vacation
Conte did the right thing. The head coach is under a lot of pressure, our job is very complex and sometimes we do need a break.
About Real Madrid
I follow Real Madrid because there are Vinicius, Rodrygo, Militao and Endric there, so in addition to the emotional connection, I am also very interested. Alonso started well and won almost every game, only losing to Atletico Madrid in La Liga and Liverpool in the Champions League. He's found some solidity defensively and I feel like they're very competitive.
source:7m com vn