Carlo Ancelotti says Gigio Donnarumma is Italy’s only ‘top-class’ player but is confident the Azzurri can ‘do well’ at Euro 2024 and admits he would ‘beat up’ Milan star Rafael Leao.
Real Madrid boss Ancelotti released an interview with La Repubblica newspaper just a few days before a Champions League Final against Borussia Dortmund.
The Italian tactician is the only coach to have won Europe’s elite competition four times. The first thing he explained in his latest interview, was his view on football.
“It’s complicated and simple at the same time. But mostly simple,” he said.
“It’s essential to have passion and do not make it too complicated with obsessions. Obsession is an illness, and luckily, I am not obsessed; I still have passion.
“The most important thing is to enjoy the privilege of a work that is also a game and remove the stress.”
Ancelotti names Italy’s only ‘top-class’ player and would ‘beat up’ Milan star Leao
Ancelotti hasn’t coached a Serie A club for several years, but what’s his view on Italian football?
“In terms of results, Italy are going back to the top in European competitions,” he noted.
“Three finalists last season, with Inter close to winning the Champions League. Atalanta won the Europa League this season and Fiorentina can win the Conference League.
“What is lacking, to me, are the stadiums and environment. There are a few things to rejuvenate.”
How about Italy’s national team at Euro 2024?
“I don’t see top-class players except Donnarumma in goal. I am talking about a generation like Pirlo, Totti, and Del Piero. More time is needed.”
Does this mean Italy will struggle in Germany?
“No, the average is still good and the team can do well,” Ancelotti replied.
How about Milan?
“I follow the team from afar and with affection,” he said.
“An extraordinary Brahim Diaz returned from there and Milan have a great talent like Leao.
“Sometimes, he [Leao] should be beaten up. If he were with me, I’d beat him up every day.”
Many players who have worked with him, say Ancelotti is like a father.
“I just act naturally and I respect everyone,” said the coach.
“Personal relationships are more important than professional ones to me, and this pays off. If a dressing room does not work, it means we have made some errors.”
Ancelotti said that his son Davide will remain at Real Madrid until he leaves, so on paper, June 2026. The Italian tactician also added that he will stop coaching when he leaves the La Liga giants. Despite his experience, Ancelotti still feels like 21 years ago, before his first Champions League final as a coach against Juventus.
“I feel like at that time. Perhaps I delegate a little more to Davide and Francesco, but we play every three days, so we can’t train that much,” he concluded.