Everton manager Carlo Ancelotti, who also manages Real Madrid, expressed sadness at Chelsea’s decline this season ahead of their Champions League quarter‑final clash on Wednesday. Ancelotti, who coached the Blues from 2009 to 2011 and secured a Premier League and FA Cup double in 2010, said he has “fantastic memories of this club and the people still working there.” He added, “I’m a supporter of Chelsea, of course, because I spent two really nice years there.”
Chelsea, currently 11th in the Premier League, dismissed Graham Potter in early April and appointed former player Frank Lampard as interim manager. When asked whether he might return to Stamford Bridge, Ancelotti replied, “Be back? No. I hope Lampard is able to do a fantastic job with them.” He noted that Lampard has about 20 years less experience than himself, but argued that experience is unlikely to affect the outcome of the tie. “He was a fantastic player, extraordinary, and knows very well what can happen in these games. He arrived at the club a week ago with many players he already knows, so I think he’ll do well,” Ancelotti said.
Real Madrid, the defending Champions League winners, are aiming for their sixth title in ten seasons. Ancelotti highlighted midfielder Fede Valverde’s training, despite recent controversy. Spanish reports claim Valverde punched Villarreal midfielder Álex Baena after their La Liga match on Saturday, prompting Baena to report the incident to the police. “He was motivated today, like the rest of them, he trained well. He has a special human quality, extraordinary, and I won’t comment on what happened, but I’m sure tomorrow he’ll give everything, as always,” Ancelotti said.
Defender David Alaba also defended his teammate, stating, “He’s doing very well, he’s got all the support from us for sure. He’s training well, looks sharp and focused for the game tomorrow, but I can’t say more about those things that happened.”
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