Carlo Ancelotti explains why he would decline the Manchester United manager role
Carlo Ancelotti, renowned for managing top European clubs, recently revealed his reluctance to take over as Manchester United’s manager. The insight came from a shared moment with former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer during a match between Everton and Manchester United.
Carlo Ancelotti’s Comments on Manchester United Pressure
According to Solskjaer, Ancelotti approached him in a casual conversation during the match. He expressed that he would not want the Manchester United job as it is “too much pressure.” This exchange highlighted the intense scrutiny associated with managing one of the world’s most famous football clubs.
Pressure in Premier League Management
Solskjaer, who had a tumultuous tenure at Manchester United, emphasized the heavy responsibility that comes with the role. Although he enjoyed the privilege of managing a prestigious team, he admitted it was a challenging time with significant expectations.
- Solskjaer managed Manchester United from December 2018 to November 2021.
- He was the first former United player to take on the role permanently post-Sir Alex Ferguson.
- Ancelotti has previously coached elite clubs, including Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Chelsea.
- He stepped into a significant role at Everton before sharing his thoughts with Solskjaer.
Solskjaer’s Tenure and Challenges
During his time at Manchester United, Solskjaer faced immense competition from managers like Jürgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola. Even with his efforts to revitalize the squad, he struggled to secure major trophies, finishing as runner-up in several competitions.
The Norwegian referenced a particularly humiliating 5-0 loss to Liverpool, which marked a low point in his managerial career. He noted that the timing of his appointment coincided with top-tier performances from rival teams, making the challenge even steeper.
In reflection, Solskjaer stated, “It was the worst time to be manager of Man Utd,” further underlining the competitive landscape of English football at that period.
Conclusion
Carlo Ancelotti’s acknowledgment of the pressure involved in managing Manchester United offers insight into the demands faced by coaches at elite clubs. As Solskjaer continues to reflect on his experience, the conversation between the two managers serves as a reminder of the expectations that come with high-profile football roles.
