José Mourinho delivered a striking remark regarding Carlo Ancelotti, revealing that he told the Italian manager he was “sick of him.” However, the story reflects no genuine rift, instead highlighting Ancelotti’s overwhelming and enduring presence at Real Madrid.
Mourinho made the comments during an interview with Corriere dello Sport, recalling a visit by Ancelotti to the club’s training ground where the current Brazil manager sought updates on several of his former players.
“Carlo is wonderful. He wanted to speak with Vinícius and ask about Rodrygo’s wellbeing and Militão’s progress,” Mourinho said, before explaining that Ancelotti had requested permission to visit Valdebebas.
The Portuguese coach added with a laugh: “I told him: ‘Are you crazy, Carlo?’ But that’s just who he is,” referencing the deep bond the Italian maintains with his former squad members.
Mourinho then revealed the context behind his headline-grabbing remark: “I told him I was sick of him; every day I walk down the corridor, I see photos of Carlo here, there, and everywhere.”
Images of Ancelotti adorn the facilities at Real Madrid, honoring his status as the most decorated manager in the club’s history following two trophy-laden spells that yielded multiple La Liga titles, UEFA Champions League crowns, and numerous other honors.
Mourinho’s return to Madrid arrives 13 years after the conclusion of his first tenure, stepping into a space deeply shaped by Ancelotti’s historic legacy while the Italian navigates his role at the helm of the Brazilian national team.
Far from indicating jealousy or friction, the “Special One’s” banter underscores the mutual respect between two legendary tacticians, with the playful jab serving as a humorous nod to the inescapable shadow of Ancelotti’s achievements at the Bernabéu.
