Ancelotti: The idea of EPL being the best is an  illusion 

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has rejected the idea that English football is peerless within Europe.

The Italian reminded fans that despite the financial disparities between the two, other leagues continue to compete.

Ancelotti spoke to the media ahead of their league match with Cadiz. He was asked whether he felt it was fair that Manchester City were the clear favourites for the Champions League, a particularly pertinent question given Los Blancos are the reigning champions.

“I’m not bothered, because the truth is that English football has teams that compete very well. It doesn’t surprise me that the English are favourites, like Manchester City are now. However I think even if there is a little difference, other regions showing they can compete. Spanish football took two teams to the semifinals last year, this year Italy has three this year…”

“European football is much more competitive than people say. The English think they have the strongest league and the most spectacular league in the world, but the truth is when they come to Europe, they compete with teams with less money, but they continue to compete, such as Spain and Italy.” 

Ancelotti would go on to say again that he felt he would be at Real Madrid next season, while also ruling out Toni Kroos and Vinicius Junior for the Cadiz game.

The Italian manager cannot be critiqued on his points there, although it could be said that perhaps the worry is more long-term. Real Madrid have flown the flag for Spain in the Champions League very high, but teams in Spain are struggling to strengthen when they get to Europe, while opponents Chelsea can replicate the nearly the entirety of Barcelona’s entire budget in spending in two windows.