Cricket Exchange reports that Carlo Ancelotti, now at the helm of Bayern Munich, recently opened up about his admiration for Manchester United, revealing that he once turned down the chance to manage the English giants. While both Ancelotti and his predecessor Pep Guardiola have enjoyed solid starts with Bayern and Manchester City respectively, recent performances from both sides have shown signs of fatigue. City went five straight matches without a win, including a 4–0 defeat to Barcelona at Camp Nou, while Bayern stumbled with back-to-back league draws.
In an interview with the UK’s Daily Mail, Ancelotti confirmed he was approached by Manchester United in 2013, shortly after Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement. “At that time, I didn’t go to United because I had already given my word to Real Madrid,” Ancelotti explained. “Of course, Manchester United is a dream club—every coach wants to manage them.” He went on to say that keeping his promise to Real Madrid was a matter of integrity, despite the obvious allure of taking charge at Old Trafford.
Cricket Exchange noted that this wasn’t the first time Ancelotti expressed interest in United. In an earlier interview with the Daily Mirror at the end of last year, he said, “Every manager dreams of coaching Manchester United. The Premier League offers a unique atmosphere, perhaps the best in the world. If given the opportunity, I’d love to return.”
The Italian also spoke highly of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, despite their heavy loss to Barcelona. “Manchester City has an extremely competitive squad this season,” he said. “While some players still lack Champions League experience, they will grow. Guardiola will ensure the team stays competitive. He’s brought in new players and a fresh tactical philosophy, which will motivate the entire squad.”
In Ancelotti’s view, City is a serious Champions League contender, alongside Bayern, Juventus, PSG, Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid. He also continues to follow Chelsea closely, the club he managed from 2009 to 2011. According to Ancelotti, Chelsea’s current boss Antonio Conte—his former captain at Juventus—is more than capable of replicating José Mourinho’s success at Stamford Bridge.
“Conte was my captain and showed remarkable professionalism. I may not fully know his coaching methods, but I understand his character and dedication. He approaches everything with laser focus, and I believe he’ll succeed at Chelsea,” Ancelotti said. Their strong relationship dates back years, highlighted during the 2013–14 Champions League when Ancelotti’s Real Madrid faced Conte’s Juventus. The two embraced warmly after the match—testament to their bond.
Still, as Cricket Exchange highlighted, Ancelotti admitted that Conte’s ultimate success depends on the club’s vision. “If Chelsea’s goal this season is to win the Premier League, that might be ambitious. But if the club is focused on building a new footballing identity and embracing fresh ideas, then Conte will have every chance to thrive.”
With top-tier managers like Ancelotti and Guardiola shaping Europe’s football elite and names like Conte bringing fresh energy into the Premier League, fans around the world—including those on Cricket Exchange—have plenty to look forward to this season.