Ancelotti denies contacts with Brazil coach
The Italian says he is focused on Real Madrid, with whom he has a contract until the end of next season, and responded to Flick’s provocations; Jorge Jesus is an increasingly strong alternative
After the international break, Carlo Ancelotti spoke to the Spanish press again, in a press conference ahead of the match against Leganés, this Saturday, and addressed several topics, including the fact that he had once again been appointed as Brazil coach .
The Italian denied having been approached by the Brazilian Federation to succeed Dorival Júnior in the role. “No, simply no. No, I have a lot of things to think about. What is happening in the market does not interest me. I am focused on this phase of the season, which is vital for us. My job is to focus on the players to get the best possible performance. We have something very close and we do not want to lose it,” he said, also denying statements by Ronaldo, who said he had tried to take him to Brazil.
It should be remembered that Jorge Jesus is increasingly being talked about as a strong alternative to the ‘merengues’ coach, so signs like this could indicate a possible return to Brazil of the current coach of Al Hilal, from Saudi Arabia.
“I don’t remember speaking to Ronaldo [Phenomenon] about this. The contract is clear. I have nothing to add. I really like Brazil , the players and the fans, but I have a contract with Real Madrid ,” he said.
Another topic discussed was the accusation against him of tax evasion worth one million euros, a case in which he will begin his trial on Wednesday, and which risks up to five years in prison.
“There are many issues on the table. I have to testify and I will do so on Wednesday. This is not the time to discuss this matter. There is an appeal filed by the prosecution next week. I won the first trial and I have full confidence in the law and justice. I am not worried. It bothers me that they say I cheated, but I will testify with enthusiasm,” he explained.
The Italian also commented on UEFA’s investigation into some of his players, due to their exaggerated celebrations at the Metropolitano, where they eliminated Atlético Madrid and progressed to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League .
“We trust UEFA. We believe that everything was done correctly. We are waiting for UEFA to tell us something, but we are confident that everything will go well,” he assured.
Finally, it further fueled the fight for the LaLiga title and responded to the statements made by Hansi Flick, who stated that Real Madrid is not Barcelona , by guaranteeing that they would not make “excuses” for the density of the calendar.
“I understand the complaint. He lacked players. Just as I agree with what he said about Real Madrid not being Barcelona . Barcelona have the advantage, but we have the Clásico and there are many games left. We have to do our best, starting tomorrow. Let’s hope we have 17 games left, because that means we will fight in every competition until the end,” he concluded.
