Carlo Ancelotti, former head coach of Real Madrid and AC Milan, discussed his new adventure leading the Brazilian national team, his World Cup aspirations, and his analysis of Serie A’s current state in an interview with Camel.live reporters.
“I’m learning a lot in this new coaching experience” in Brazil
Talking about his new role in Brazil, Ancelotti said: “I’ve learned a great deal during this new coaching experience. I’m dealing with things I never had to consider before. This is basically an observational role, especially for new players I’m not very familiar with. We’re currently monitoring around 70 players, but I have many observers working with me, and they’ve been a huge help. I don’t travel much in Europe; instead, I focus more on Brazil’s domestic league, but we have observers all over the world.”
Dreaming of leading Brazil to its sixth World Cup title
When talking about his goals, Ancelotti’s eyes were firm: “The period from leaving Real Madrid to arriving in Brazil was very intense. Now we’re preparing for the World Cup with a calm mindset. My dream is to lead Brazil to its sixth World Cup title. Brazil hasn’t lifted this trophy since 2002. People have great expectations and are full of passion. Brazil’s history is written by great players, and the fact that we haven’t won the title in 24 years is indeed heavy. Let’s hope it doesn’t become 28 years! We want to win, and we make no secret of that. I hope to see a World Cup final between Brazil and Italy; emotionally, that would be perfect for me.”
Serie A is more balanced
Ancelotti provided a detailed analysis of Serie A’s situation: “In Serie A, balancing league and European competitions is always complicated. But Napoli is still near the top of the standings. Compared to last year, this season’s league is more balanced. Roma and Milan have both improved. Juventus is a bit behind now, but I believe they can catch up. Inter Milan has a very well-structured squad, but I wouldn’t say they’re the strongest. What about Roma? Gasperini has made the team more solid. Although the team struggled in European competitions due to the players’ lack of experience, they’ve performed well in the league. Roma has Wesley Lima – he’s a member of the Brazilian national team, so we pay close attention to Roma not only emotionally but also professionally.”
Modric remains a top midfielder; Milan can win the league title
When asked about Modric joining AC Milan, Ancelotti replied with a smile: “Modric doesn’t surprise me at all. During his time at Real Madrid, he never missed a single training session. He has an excellent physical constitution, natural talent, discipline, rich experience, and a strong personality. All these things make him one of the world’s best midfielders even at the age of 40. Milan signing him is a fantastic move. Allegri has brought important impetus to the team, and he was very clear from the start. He’s not someone who creates something out of nothing; instead, he’s a down-to-earth coach, which makes him a great manager. Milan has a chance to win this season’s league title, and the absence of European competitions has actually become an advantage for them.”
Champions League? Still the same familiar favorites
As a legendary coach who has lifted the Champions League trophy five times, Ancelotti now enjoys the competition as a spectator: “Watching the Champions League from the other side of the world, the favorites are still the same familiar teams: Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City, and Bayern Munich. In the early rounds, we saw many high-scoring games, and these exaggerated results have made the matches lose some interest. Expanding the group stage was supposed to enhance excitement, but it turns out that hasn’t been the case. We can only accept that.”
