In the days before Rafa Benitez was fired as Real Madrid there was some media talk about Carlo Ancelotti returning to the Santiago Bernabéu to manage the Spanish giants. But based on what Ancelotti said over the weekend in a recent interview with Chinese broadcaster Sina Sports, there was never any chance of that as he questioned the actions of club president Florentino Pérez.
Here are some of Ancelotti’s comments:
“The news from Spain during Christmas wasn’t so good, as you know I have a special sentiment towards Real Madrid. I made a lot of friends there and when there are problems I get angry as well,” the Italian said.
On Rafa Benítez Being Fired:
“After a lot of games this season Real Madrid are still in the fight for the Liga and Champions League titles, but Florentino Pérez decided to sack Benítez. I know that the work of a manager is always linked to results. I also know that our job is surrounded by controversy but on this occasion I genuinely could not understand the decision. Madrid had only played half a season.”
On The Hiring Of Zinedine Zidane: ”
Zidane will be the fifth manager at Real Madrid since 2009. Is it always the fault of the coach? People can draw their own conclusions. I admire my friend Zidane, we had some great times together on the bench, we won the Décima together at Real Madrid and so he is part of the team. Time will give us an answer, but without doubt Zidane has the ability to manager Real Madrid. I sincerely wish him the best.”
His Team of the season:
“At the halfway stage Barcelona and Bayern Munich are doing a good job. But there is no doubt that if there is a side who deserve all the accolades it is Leicester City, where my colleague Ranieri is manager. I’m happy for them, we don’t know what will happen by the end of the season but at the moment they stand out most.”
Worst team of the season:
“Chelsea. As reigning champions, they have not played to the level required. It seems that now they are getting back on track, results are improving. I hope my colleague Hiddink has good fortune.”
Best player:
“Vardy, without doubt, is the surprise of the season. It’s hard to believe that a short while ago he was in an amateur league. And Neymar.”
