CARLO ANCELOTTI was interviewed for the Liverpool job – but missed out to the “right choice” Jurgen Klopp.
When Brendan Rodgers was sacked in October 2015, Kop chiefs spoke to both men and it became a two-horse race to replace the Northern Irishman.
Carlo Ancelotti was interviewed for the Liverpool job in 2015 but missed out to Jurgen Klopp
Klopp was the man owners Fenway Sports Group were after on a long-term basis so it was the German that was appointed.
Ironically, Ancelotti is now managing on Merseyside after replacing Marco Silva at Everton.
And ahead of taking his new Toffees side to Anfield for their FA Cup clash this weekend, the Italian revealed he was in the running – but admitted Liverpool were right to appoint Klopp.
Ancelotti said: “It was after (I left) Real Madrid, I had a chat with the owner.
“They were looking for a new manager but I think they made a right choice with Jurgen. He is doing fantastic work at Liverpool, so well done.”
Ancelotti is the only manager to get the better of Klopp this season, registering a 2-0 win with Napoli in the Champions League in September.
Asked on the secret to beating Liverpool, he added: “Just score more goals. Jurgen is my friend. I had the luck to beat him last season (with Napoli), also.
“We were able to do a great performance. That is what you have to do. Normal is not enough.”
As Liverpool continue their march towards a first Prem crown, the Toffees boss is hoping his side can cause an upset against the runaway league leaders.
He said: “It is a fantastic challenge but also a fantastic opportunity. We are going to play against the best team in this moment, they are world champions so congratulations to them, but this is a fantastic challenge for us.
“Every derby is a special game. I know how different this game is. Of course Liverpool is the favourite, but in a derby you never know what is going on.
“The FA Cup here is completely different to other competitions, different to the Italian Cup for instance. The fact that it is the oldest competition gives it a really special atmosphere.
“There are a lot of surprises in this competition. It’s a really exciting moment, we have confidence to do our best.”
Ancelotti is the only manager to register a win over Jurgen Klopp this season when his Napoli side earned a 2-0 victory in SeptemberCredit: The Mega Agency
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
