Carlo Ancelotti has revealed that he was approached to coach the Italian national team but declined the opportunity as he remains dedicated to leading the Brazilian squad.
Paolo Maldini, the former technical director of Italy, who both played alongside Ancelotti and was managed by him at AC Milan from 2001 to 2009, had approached him following Italy’s failure to qualify for a third consecutive World Cup, as reported last week.
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Ancelotti clarified his reasons for rejecting Italy’s offer in an interview with ESPN’s Pedro Ivo Almeida on Wednesday, saying, “It’s not a contract issue; that’s not the reason. I’m committed to the CBF and this country, which has embraced me warmly over the past year.”
“I want to remain here. I appreciate the Italian Federation for the opportunity, but I feel it is right to stay in a country that has welcomed me and at an institution that has allowed me to work.”
After Ancelotti’s rejection, Italy’s Football Federation (FIGC) also failed to secure Pep Guardiola as their head coach, and attempts to appoint Andrea Pirlo fell through due to political issues surrounding a sponsorship deal with a Russian betting company.
Roberto Mancini has since been reinstated as Italy’s head coach.
Ancelotti signed an extension with the Brazil Football Confederation (CBF) in May, keeping him in charge until the 2030 World Cup after taking the reins shortly after leaving Real Madrid.
Under Ancelotti’s management, Brazil faced their earliest World Cup exit since 1990, concluding in the round of 16 after a loss to Norway. The 67-year-old expressed that he has unfinished business with the Brazilian team.
“The World Cup outcome was disappointing; it saddened us all,” he noted. “However, we must reflect on the past while also looking forward because we have a talented new generation of players ready to build a positive future.”
Ancelotti anticipates transitioning to a new lineup, with several veterans likely to step aside, including Brazil’s all-time leading scorer Neymar, who has stated his intent to retire from international play.
“Historically, one generation comes to a close and another takes its place, and it needs to be even better,” Ancelotti remarked.
When discussing players like Alisson Becker, Casemiro, Danilo, and Alex Sandro, all over 33 years old, Ancelotti acknowledged that they might still play a role in the team, but emphasized the need for change.
“Some might be included in the squad, but we are looking at a new cycle and planning to integrate younger players,” he stated. “We’re closing a chapter and I appreciate all of them deeply.”