Bayern Munich manager Carlo Ancelotti has claimed clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United are more focussed on making money than succeeding on the pitch.
Arsenal and United are both American backed, with the Gunners’ current majority shareholder as American Stan Kroenke, while the Glazer family have owned Manchester United since 2005.
Reflecting on his time at Spanish giants Real Madrid, Ancelotti revealed the expectations of Europe’s biggest clubs means it is harder to stay employed for a long time, even with success.
“I was fortunate to be able to coach Real Madrid, although then the club decided to change managers. That is part of the job, we are exposed to that,” Ancelotti said, as quoted by the Mirror.
The Champions League’s most successful ever coach also made a slight at the running of opponents Arsenal, and Manchester United.
“In the big clubs it is difficult to stay a long time because the expectations of results are so high. Madrid’s history and demands mean that if a coach doesn’t win trophies, a change is made. You have to respect that.
“It’s true that there are other clubs like Manchester United, where [Alex] Ferguson was there many years, and now Wenger at Arsenal.
Bayern are one of the favourites to win the Champions League but will need to improve their performances in Europe should they hope to do well in the competition, having qualified for the next round as runners up to Atletico Madrid in their group.
Ancelotti also revealed his top picks to win the competition, a list which omitted Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal.
“We’re hoping to win it and if not, at least get to the final,” Ancelotti continued.
“I can’t say I’m backing anyone else. There are seven sides this year who can win the trophy: Real Madrid, Barcelona, Atlético Madrid, Manchester City, Paris Saint-Germain, Juventus and Bayern Munich. At the moment, all seven are among the 16 best.”
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