Benitez full of praise for Ancelotti, believes he is the right man for Los Blancos.
Napoli boss Rafa Benitez has praised Real Madrid’s appointment of Carlo Ancelotti, but has aimed a dig at former coach Jose Mourinho.
The Italian tactician was appointed as Mourinho’s successor on Tuesday, as Laurent Blanc was confirmed as the new PSG coach.
Having won titles in England, France and Italy, the 54-year-old’s arrival at the Bernabeu has long been touted, but his appointment has received widespread praise as he looks to build a new era of success with the Spanish giants.
Former Valencia and Chelsea boss Benitez has joined the chorus of congratulations, but couldn’t help but aim a subtle dig at long-time foe Mourinho.
The Portuguese coach has a history with the Spaniard, publicly mocking him after he was announced as his successor at Inter and then again ahead of his appointment at Chelsea, while suggesting that Benitez had tried to get photos of him removed around Inter’s training ground.
However, Benitez has hit back as the rivalry is set to rumble on, claiming that Ancelotti can restore some of the values that clearly went missing during Mourinho’s time in Madrid.
“Ancelotti is a great coach and a great person. He will somehow manage to restore the values that have always been important at Madrid,” Benitez told AS, as reported by Goal.com.
“I have a good relationship with Carlo following our time in England and the Champions League finals between Liverpool and Milan.
“He is always polite towards other people. He’s an educated guy, a good professional and always does his job well. He’s won a lot of titles.”
While Ancelotti is set to be officially unveiled on Wednesday, it remains to be seen whether or not Mourinho is drawn into another war of words with Benitez.
COMMENTS