Carlo Ancelotti, the esteemed Italian manager and current head coach of Real Madrid, recently made a surprising and heartfelt revelation regarding his managerial aspirations. In an interview with Swiss radio station "RSI," Ancelotti admitted that he once harbored a strong desire to take charge of English club Liverpool, a dream that he had carried with him for many years. His comments have since sparked considerable discussion among football fans, especially those with an interest in Premier League history and managerial what-ifs.
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According to Ancelotti, the opportunity to coach Liverpool came closer than many might have thought. Back in October 2015, following the dismissal of Brendan Rodgers, there were credible reports suggesting that Ancelotti was in discussions with Liverpool’s hierarchy regarding the possibility of becoming their next manager. At the time, Ancelotti was one of the most respected coaches in world football, having managed top clubs like AC Milan, Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain, and Real Madrid in previous years. His reputation for winning major trophies and managing high-profile players made him an appealing candidate.
However, despite the apparent interest from both parties, Liverpool ultimately decided to go in a different direction. The club appointed Jürgen Klopp, the charismatic German coach who had recently left Borussia Dortmund. Klopp's arrival would go on to mark a turning point in Liverpool’s modern era, leading them to Champions League and Premier League glory. While Ancelotti’s dream of managing the Reds never materialized, his affection for the club remained.
Speaking candidly, Ancelotti said, “It was my dream to coach Liverpool. I’ve always admired the club, its history, its passionate supporters, and the incredible atmosphere at Anfield. But as things turned out, I found myself managing their Merseyside rivals, Everton.”
Indeed, Ancelotti did end up in Liverpool – just on the blue side of the city. He took charge of Everton in December 2019, offering the Toffees a period of stability and ambition during his tenure. Despite the fierce rivalry between Everton and Liverpool, Ancelotti embraced the opportunity with professionalism and quickly developed a connection with Evertonians. “I had the experience of competing against Liverpool while managing Everton,” he said. “Now, without a doubt, I consider myself an Everton supporter. The passion of the fans, the intensity of the matches, and the pride in the blue shirt – it all drew me in.”
Ancelotti also commented on the unique football culture of Liverpool, highlighting the emotional investment fans have in their clubs. “There’s a kind of magic in the air,” he said. “There’s a deep passion for the colors. You can really sense the emotional struggle that Everton fans feel toward Liverpool. For many years – and still today – Liverpool has been the stronger team in the Premier League. That dynamic adds so much depth to the local rivalry.”
The veteran manager also touched on another career-defining decision he made in 2018 when he turned down the chance to manage the Italian national team. “I was approached about coaching Italy,” he explained. “But I didn’t feel it was the right time. I love being on the pitch every single day, planning training sessions, working directly with the players. The national team job felt more like a part-time role, and I was worried it would take away some of the passion I have for the game. That was the only reason I declined.”
Ancelotti’s reflections give fans a rare insight into the mind of one of football’s most successful managers. His honesty, humility, and deep love for the sport continue to endear him to fans around the world – whether in Madrid, Milan, or Merseyside.
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