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      ‘Seemed like a part-time job’ – Carlo Ancelotti reveals he rejected huge role with Real Madrid future in doubt

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      CARLO ANCELOTTI has revealed he rejected the chance to take up a huge managerial role because it seemed “like a part-time job”.The Italian coach, 65, is hoping to mastermind a stunning comeback from 3-0 down for Real Madrid against Arsenal on Wednesday, although preparations have been anything but smooth.Carlo Ancelotti has said he rejected the Italian national team job in 2018He said he thought it might ‘make me lose a bit of my passion’Credit: RexAncelotti has been with the club since 2021, but he has now opened up on how he turned down the Italian national team gig in 2018, before they ultimately appointed Roberto Mancini.Speaking to Swiss broadcaster RSI, he said he rejected the role because he feared it would make him “lose a bit of passion”.He explained: “I said no because I didn’t feel like it.“I really like being on the pitch daily to prepare training sessions, and the national team seemed like a part-time job that would make me lose a bit of my passion.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”That’s the only reason.”Ancelotti’s contract with the Spanish giants runs until 2026.However, the club face a mountain climb to defend their Champions League crown and are trailing Barcelona in La Liga by four points.They also play their arch-rivals in the Copa del Rey final later this month, and if they fail to overcome Barcelona in at least one of the domestic competitions, they could be left trophyless this season.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKIf that happens, ruthless club bosses may not waste any time in relieving him of his duties as manager despite his stellar record during his second spell in Madrid.Journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed Real Madrid will make a move for Bayer Leverkusen’s Xabi Alonso if Ancelotti leaves.How Declan Rice can be ‘world class’ AGAIN vs Real Madrid | Tactics Exposed Deano’s DecisionAncelotti said he would discuss his future with the club at the end of the season, telling reporters: “I shouldn’t talk about things about my future, because the contract is quite clear.”Whatever it is, it will be discussed at the end of the season. The club always supports me, especially in difficult moments.”Since returning to manage Los Blancos, Ancelotti has won 11 titles, including two Champions Leagues, two league titles, the Copa del Rey and the Club World Cup.The former AC Milan and Chelsea manager joined the club from Everton, and revealed he initiated contact over a return.Carlo Ancelotti has now won 28 trophiesHe added: “Actually, I was the one who called them.”The year before, I had reached out to see if they had any players available, and we ended up signing James Rodriguez.”I knew they were looking for a coach the following year.”I spoke to the director and said they needed to get a good one.”I shouldn’t talk about things about my future, because the contract is quite clear.Carlo AncelottiAncelotti also admitted that before joining the Toffees his dream was to manage Liverpool, but after experiencing the Merseysiders’ rivalry first hand he was now “absolutely” an Everton fan.He said: “My dream was to coach Liverpool, but then I found myself at Everton and I experienced their rivalry, and now I’m absolutely an Everton fan.Read More on The Sun”I really liked the environment, because there is a spectacular passion for colours.”You also notice the suffering that the fan has for Liverpool, which for many years and still today excels in the Premier League.” More

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      How Declan Rice can be ‘world class’ again vs Real Madrid and send Arsenal into Champions League semi-finals

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      DECLAN RICE put on a performance for the ages against Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final.He had gone more than 400 career matches without scoring a direct free-kick.Declan Rice produced a stunning performance against Real MadridCredit: GettyHe was all over the pitch but got forward wellCredit: SunSportThen he produced two moments of sheer class within 13 minutes to turn the tie in Arsenal’s favour.Mikel Merino turned in a superb third to give the Gunners a 3-0 lead to take to the Bernabeu on Wednesday night. And ahead of the second leg, SunSport’s tactical guru Dean Scoggins unpacked what made Rice’s masterclass so good in the latest episode of Tactics Exposed…DECLAN RICE LOOKED A WORLD BEATER AGAINST REAL MADRID… WHY?Declan Rice is a world-class football player. We talked previously about how he can be wasted in the England system.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAgainst Real Madrid, Rice played much further forward and was freed up – but don’t underestimate the Bukayo Saka factor.Jude Bellingham came back to help David Alaba deal with Saka but that moved the midfield sideways for Madrid – which opens gaps for Rice to get forward and be a threat. Minus Rice’s two free-kicks, Myles Lewis-Skelly was the best player on the pitch – he was unbelievably good. He came in to make a midfield two with Thomas Partey which took some defensive responsibility off Rice.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSWHAT DO YOU MAKE OF RICE DEFYING ARSENAL’S SET-PIECE COACH AND SHOOTING RATHER THAN CROSSING?Declan Rice the leader came to the fore in this game, too. Players can magic moments. This was an opportunity and he took it. How Lewis-Skelly could be Tuchel’s secret weapon for EnglandRice told Bukayo Saka he was going to ignore the set-piece coachCredit: GettyRice pushed into the high left No8 positionCredit: SunSportIf he put it over the bar, it wouldn’t matter.Too often in football matches it has becomes robotic and turgid because players don’t want to take the risk and shift responsibility. Rice has done that brilliantly well. We saw Brennan Johnson not take the penalty against Southampton when he could have completed his hat-trick – he semi-asked if he was allowed but Mathys Tel took it. Rice owned the free-kick and is becoming the main man in a very good team.WHICH FREE-KICK WAS BETTER – FIRST OR SECOND?I think the second one. As a mid-ranking amateur footballer that I was, I judge a goal on ‘could I have done it?’If you gave me 100 attempts, maybe I could score one in a hundred for the first one – but the second one not even one in a million. No chance! The pace he hits it at, the angle, the attitude to give it a go. IS RICE PLAYING IN THE WRONG POSITION?At the moment for Arsenal, his position is here, it’s there, it’s everywhere.He’s two, maybe even three, players in one. So yes, Mikel Arteta is getting the best out of him. Out of possession, he drops in with Partey and gets back in position but they call him the ‘horse’ because he never stops running. When the full-back inverts, he can go further upfield. Lewis-Skelly is English – so can he do the same for England to get the best out of Rice in a Three Lions shirt?Read More on The SunIf you have another holding midfielder alongside Rice for England, then you can have Rice and Bellingham running from deep. Get Rice on the field and tell him to run. Rice was able to push on due to the inverted role of Myles Lewis-SkellyCredit: GettyBukayo Saka’s influence cannot be underestimatedCredit: SunSportThe Englishman has been a standout performer all seasonCredit: SunSport More

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      Chelsea make Enzo Maresca decision after worrying downturn in form and taking swipe at Blues fans

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      ENZO MARESCA is safe as Chelsea boss – for now.The club’s Italian head coach retains the confidence of the club’s board despite a worrying downturn in form.Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea have endured a poor run of formCredit: RexSunday’s dismal 2-2 draw against struggling Ipswich leaves them sixth in the Premier League and out of the Champions League reckoning for next season.Chelsea’s entire gameplan revolves around returning to the money-spinning European competition as quickly as possible.Maresca’s team was booed off at half time and needed an own goal and one from on-loan Jadon Sancho to grab a point against relegation-bound Town.But Maresca’s dedication to his job and unflinching commitment to the cause mean the Stamford Bridge top brass remain convinced he is still the right man for the job.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe has been in charge for less than a season since leaving Leicester City having won last season’s Championship title.Maresca, 45, is the fourth permanent manager to serve under Chelsea’s ownership since they took over less than three years ago.Yet there is no desire for another change of coach even though results have taken a tumble.A Blues insider told SunSport: “Everyone at the club is totally on board and committed to getting us back in the Champions League.Most read in FootballJoin SUN CLUB for the Chelsea Files every Tuesday plusin-depth coverage and exclusives from Stamford Bridge“Enzo, the board and the sporting directors are wedded to that ideal.“If it doesn’t happen this season there will be questions asked naturally. But as it stands Enzo is still seen as the man to take Chelsea forwards.”’I can’t see anything’ – Chelsea fans moan as live TNT Sports coverage of Conference League clash is ruined by smokeChelsea have drawn their last two Premier League games dropping four points.They sit a point outside the top five which would qualify them for the Champions League after a two season absence.There are only six games left in which to make up lost ground although they do play direct rivals Newcastle and Nottingham Forest during the run-in.It’s a tough challenge and winger Sancho has called for unity in the closing weeks of a topsy turvy campaign, even though Chelsea face a tough trip to neighbours Fulham on Sunday.Chelsea ratings vs IpswichJADON SANCHO spared Chelsea’s blushes as Enzo Maresca’s side came from behind to draw against Ipswich.The relegation-threatened Tractor Boys went 2-0 up after 31 minutes with Chelsea flat throughout the first half.But Maresca’s men woke up after the break and fought back for what will still be a disappointing point as they chase a Champions League spot.So who were the shining lights for the Blues – and who had an afternoon to forget?Read Conor Jones’ ratings here to find out.Sancho said: “We really want that Champions League spot.“It’s not over, we’ve still got six games to go. From now on every game is going to have to be a final, so we’re going to need everyone at 100 per cent.“We have tough games ahead but if we stick together I’m sure we can get what we need from them.”Maresca complained that the ‘environment’ at Stamford Bridge is not helping his players in their quest to get back among Europe’s elite clubs.Read More on The SunChelsea’s demanding fans are restless and are not happy that even though the team is up against it domestically they are flying in the UEFA Conference League this season.Maresca said: “We are stronger with our fans. We are a better team and it’s up to them to decide the way to be.” More

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      Real Madrid in chaos before Arsenal second-leg with stars in bust-up, Mbappe red card shame and Modric busy buying club

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      REAL MADRID will need all hands on deck to complete an unbelievable Champions League turnaround against Arsenal on Wednesday.However, the Spanish giants have been hit by internal chaos ahead of the crunch quarter-final tie.Real Madrid have been hit by chaos ahead of their Champions League quarter-final second leg against ArsenalCredit: ReutersKylian Mbappe was sent off at the weekendCredit: AFPThe first leg at the Emirates saw the 15-time European champions fall 3-0 behind after a second half blitz by the Gunners led by two outrageous free-kicks from Declan Rice.Carlo Ancelotti called for calm ahead of the reverse leg at the Bernabeu, but it seems the message has not trickled down to his distracted multi-million pound stars.Los Blancos returned to winning ways on Sunday with a 1-0 win at Alaves, despite Kylian Mbappe being sent off for a horror tackle when he went diving in with his studs raised and caught Antonio Blanco high on his shin. Training before the game was equally chaotic for Ancelotti’s squad.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLReports in Spain claim Jude Bellingham and Antonio Rudiger had to be separated in a training ground bust-up on Friday.El Chiringuito claims that former Chelsea star Rudiger clattered Bellingham with a rough challenge during a training game.This prompted the England international to bite back with a scathing insult, which subsequently sparked a clash between the pair as team-mates were forced to intervene to separate them.Despite the confrontation, Bellingham and Rudiger are said to have resolved the matter quickly.Most read in FootballJude Bellingham and Antonion Rudiger had a training ground bust-upCredit: GettyLuka Modric is looking to become a shareholder in SwanseaCredit: Sunday TimesFerland Mendy has also been ruled out of the clash through injuryCredit: GettyBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMeanwhile, news has emerged that veteran midfielder Luka Modric is set to become a minority shareholder in Championship club Swansea.A deal has reportedly been agreed that sees the 39-year-old legend acquire a stake in the Welsh club.Thierry Henry’s blunt six-word statement to Kylian Mbappe before Arsenal’s incredible win over Real MadridThe amount of the Swans he is buying and the cost of the investment is currently unclear with Modric set to join Andy Coleman, Brett Cravatt, Nigel Morris and Jason Cohen as part-owners of Swansea.The move will not impact his ongoing playing career and he is not ready to hang up his boots just yet.But buying into a football club is likely to have been a distraction.On top of all of this, Madrid have also been rocked by news that defender Ferland Mendy is definitely out of the tie.The left-back suffered a hamstring injury before the first leg, and it has now been reported by AS there is no chance of him making a sudden comeback.That adds on to the already absent Eduardo Camavinga after he was sent off at the end of the game at the Emirates.There are also fitness doubts surrounding Federico Valverde and David Alaba, while Dani Ceballos is almost certainly out against his former club.The one boost Real can count on is the return of Aurelien Tchouameni from suspension.Speaking about the clash, Ancelotti referenced previous times huge deficits have been turned over in the Champions League, with the term “remontada” being born after Barcelona overturned a 4-0 first-leg defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.He said: “Remontada? We will try. Read More on The Sun”It happened many times. “We will try until the last minute.”Arsenal ratings vs Real Madrid as Declan Rice’s free-kick thunderbolts earn him an ELEVEN out of 10BEND it like Beckham? More like bend it like Declan…It was a set-piece clinic from the Arsenal midfielder as he scored the first free-kicks of his career against Real Madrid – and the first player in Champions League history to score multiple direct free-kicks in the same knockout stage game.Thibaut Courtois was on hand to save Real Madrid in a fast paced first half as he pulled off a fine double save to deny a Rice header and a follow-up effort from Gabriel Martinelli.The deadlock was finally broken in the 58th minute as England star Rice whipped in a sensational free-kick.Rice then sent the Emirates into the stratosphere with as he added a second with an even better free-kick from the left side of the goal which he rifled into the top right corner.Mikel Merino then swept a devastating third into the bottom corner from a low cross to put the cherry on a remarkable night.Rice’s epic showing was enough to earn him an unprecedented ELEVEN in our player ratings.Here’s how SunSport’s Jordan Davies rated the rest of the Gunners… More

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      How Premier League could boast ELEVEN teams in Europe next season with seven qualifying for Champions League

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      THE PREM could still have 11 teams in Europe next season – although it needs Aston Villa to pull off the mother of all Champions League comebacks to still be on.Arsenal’s quarter-final first-leg thrashing of Real Madrid last week confirmed that England will have a fifth Champions League place next term, for the first time.Aston Villa’s second leg against PSG will be integral for other Prem clubs and their European hopesCredit: EPAFulham and Brighton could still qualify for EuropeCredit: ReutersBut if Villa were to find a way of overhauling their 3-1 first-leg deficit when Paris Saint-Germain visit the West Midlands tomorrow and go on to lift the trophy in Munich next month, that would mean six Prem teams in the competition.That would even extend to SEVEN if either Tottenham or Manchester United can progress and win the Europa League.And there is the possibility of a further FOUR places on offer if Chelsea make their status as Conference League favourites count by adding that trophy to the club’s European haul.If the standings in the Prem table were not to change between now and the end of the season, the current top five of Liverpool, Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle and Manchester City would all earn a passage directly into the initial stage of the Champions League.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLEnglish football also has three more guaranteed European slots, two in the Europa League plus one in the Conference League.But only one of those places, the second Europa League spot, would normally be awarded by a Prem finish, with the winners of the FA Cup and Carabao Cup respectively taking the automatic entries.However, a Wembley Final triumph for City or semi-final opponents Forest, or for Villa if they win the Champions League, will mean the place would revert to the Prem table.With Newcastle having won the Carabao Cup, their qualification for the Champions League would open the place in the third-tier competition.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSIf Chelsea win the Conference League AND qualify for Europe through their League position, England would have a maximum of 10 sides in continental action.However, if Enzo Maresca’s Blues blow up in the Prem but still win the Conference League it would open up the path for a remarkable English battalion next term.Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta will be missing four defensive starters for a mammoth Champions League quarter final That could see Europa League football for Fulham and Brighton, with Bournemouth squeezing into the Conference League. More

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      Jude Bellingham ‘has to be separated from Antonio Rudiger in training ground bust-up’ just days before Arsenal clash

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      JUDE BELLINGHAM allegedly had to be separated from Antonio Rudiger in a training ground bust-up ahead of Real Madrid’s Champions League showdown with Arsenal.Reports in Spain claim the pair were pulled apart on Friday during a heated session at their base outside the capital.Reports in Spain claim Jude Bellingham and Antonio Rudiger had a training ground bust-upCredit: GettyReal Madrid teammates were forced to intervene ahead of the Arsenal clashCredit: GettyEl Chiringuito claims that former Chelsea star Rudiger clattered Bellingham with a rough challenge during a training game.This prompted Real’s English midfielder to bite back with a cutting insult.And it sparked a clash between the pair as teammates intervened to split them up.However, Bellingham and Rudiger are said to have quickly resolved the matter.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWhile it was noted that incidents at the training ground are part and parcel of the beautiful game.Their collision comes at a key moment in Real’s season.Carlo Ancelotti’s domestic and European champions are in danger of losing their grasp on both titles.Real are four points behind Barcelona in the title race with just seven games remaining.Most read in Champions LeagueBEST FREE BETS AND BETTING SIGN UP OFFERSWhile they are on the verge of a Champions League quarter-final exit after losing their first leg against Arsenal 3-0.The two sides collide at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, with Real needing a miracle to overturn the scoreline.New footage sees raging Jude Bellingham KICK VAR monitor in frustration after Real Madrid’s last-gasp defeatAnd they will remain without three of their regular back four defenders, with Dani Carvajal, Eder Militao and Ferland Mendy all missing through injury.Eduardo Camavinga is also suspended after being booked in the first leg.But Aurelien Tchouameni is available to anchor Real’s midfield after returning from suspension. More

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      Newcastle assistant Jason Tindall gives Eddie Howe health update as stars dedicate Man Utd thumping to hospitalised boss

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      SKIPPER Bruno Guimaraes dedicated Newcastle’s rout of Manchester United to stricken Eddie Howe.The Toon boss watched the game from a hospital bed as his team surged up to fourth in their quest for a Champions League place.Bruno Guimaraes quickly thought of ill boss Eddie Howe after rounding off Newcastle’s 4-1 defeat of Man UtdCredit: GettyEddie Howe could return in charge of the Toon’s next Prem gameCredit: ReutersGuimaraes, who scored in the thumping, said: “When we went to the pitch we said, ‘We’ll play for him’.“He’s been unbelievable for us. We missed him on the training ground.“Hopefully it gave him happiness and he’s back for the next game. It’s been a tough week for him.”Two-goal hero Harvey Barnes said: “He’s on the road to recovery, hopefully. He’s so influential throughout the week.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL“We knew that we had a job to do without him. We said before the game we had to put a smile on his face.”Howe, 47, was admitted to hospital on Friday so his No 2, Jason Tindall, took charge against United on Sunday.The top five places guarantee a Champions League place this term and Toon started strongly.Sandro Tonali’s opener was levelled by Alejandro Garnacho to make it 1-1 at half-time.Most read in FootballStand-in chief Jason Tindall had a congratulatory message from HoweCredit: GettyBut Toon blew the Red Devils away after the break, with Barnes’ two goals and Guimaraes’ strike  securing a first league double over United for  94 YEARS.Tindall said: “I had a message from Eddie congratulating the team and the performance.Eddie Howe ‘hungry for more’ silverware as he celebrates Newcastle’s success “He was able to watch the game and I’m sure that performance will put a smile on his face.“I’m super proud of the players. But I am not  surprised because we have a fantastic group and some great leaders.“When the manager isn’t there you have to step up individually and collectively, and we did that. I’m really proud.”Asked  whether Howe would be back for Wednesday’s home clash with Crystal Palace, Tindall said: “Not sure. “He’ll be in good spirits and the sooner the manager is back, the better for everyone.”He was able to watch the game and I’m sure that performance will put a smile on his face.Jason TindallTindall, 47, who was a former team-mate as a player and then Howe’s assistant at Bournemouth, added: “He was hugely missed. Certainly for me.“It’s only the second time in 17 years that we’ve not been side by side and I did miss him.“You miss your leader when he’s not there. But it’s testament  to everybody to be able to step into them big shoes to fill.“He’s one of the best managers around and credit to everybody to be able to go out and deliver that performance.“We’ve had a good week, a really positive result away at Leicester on Monday, too.Read More on The Sun“We know our expectations and our goals, and what we want to try to achieve.“Every game is so important especially when you come into the money end of the season as they say, so it’s important we deliver a performance.” More

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      Harry Redknapp: Eddie Howe has a huge summer ahead – Newcastle are THREE good signings away from challenging for title

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      NEWCASTLE fans waited so long for a proper knees-up that it was always going to be one to remember.They may have forgotten what it was like to win a trophy but not how to throw a party — as we all got to see two weeks ago.Harry Redknapp says Newcastle can now target more silverware after winning the Carabao CupCredit: GettyWhich is just as well, because their gaffer Eddie Howe is building something so special I think those supporters will have a lot to celebrate from here.Far bigger things than the Carabao Cup, with all due respect, because in my book that is just the start.They certainly won’t be waiting 70 years for the next domestic trophy!I am not saying the next stop is the Premier League title as they are three good signings short of pushing the likes of Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal over a season — but they are moving closer.READ MORE IN football Eddie, who was in hospital yesterday after feeling ill during the week, will miss their clash against Manchester United today and I wish him a speedy recovery.And so will all the Toon fans — which certainly shows up all those who reckoned Eddie was only keeping the seat warm for a glamorous foreign name after the Saudis appointed him.Whether that was the plan when they arrived I don’t know but — four years on — the only way I can see Howe leaving St James’ Park is for the England job.The search for Thomas Tuchel’s replacement, when that day comes, won’t take long, although I am not saying Newcastle fans should start worrying yet. Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSThat’s for the future.For now, all that matters is making sure this is the real thing, not just another false start.Harry Redknapp rings me on the M40 after every game whether we win or lose – he’s the best uncle everAfter the Saudis took over there was a lot of talk the richest club in the world would take off, and when they made the Champions League two years ago, it certainly looked that way.But despite that famous win over Paris Saint-Germain, they never really got off the launch pad and when they went from finishing fourth in the Prem to seventh, quite a few feared the worst for Eddie.Thankfully the people who matter never doubted he was the right man and now you won’t find anyone who disagrees.Actually there was one… the radio pundit I heard who said Howe wasn’t the answer if they wanted to push on after the League Cup. What a load of cobblers!I think those supporters will have a lot to celebrate from here. Far bigger things than the Carabao Cup, with all due respect, because in my book that is just the start.Harry RedknappOf course, they must make sure the Wembley win isn’t a one-off and Newcastle can only prove that over time but what convinces me they will is the way Eddie has gone about it.Right from the start he said it wouldn’t be a trolley dash for the biggest names in football just because he had the money and he proved it by making Kieran Trippier his first signing.When Dan Burn, something of a journeyman up to then,  arrived soon after fans weren’t exactly buzzing at the new buys.Ask them now, though, and you will get a different answer. And do not forget, either, that for all there is no shortage of stars in the squad, the fact most have become bigger at the Toon than they were before says a lot.Eddie Howe lifted the Carabao Cup but he can win more with NewcastleCredit: PAThe Geordie’s still know how to party but fans shouldn’t be happy yetCredit: SplashAlexander Isak is a world-class striker you could put alongside any in the game, while Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali are top-notch midfielders.Anthony Gordon is one of the best wingers around and young full-backs Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall have both won England caps since signing.But for me, Trippier has been the real star of the show and the leader every manager wants.The second leg of the League Cup semi-final was perfect proof, when he steamed into the first tackle and set the tone. Arsenal were never in it after that.Dan Burn is just unbelievable. From doing the rounds at places like Yeovil, Birmingham and Wigan to man of the match at Wembley and an England cap. What a career!Harry Redknapp And Burn is just unbelievable. From doing the rounds at places like Yeovil, Birmingham and Wigan to man of the match at Wembley and an England cap. What a career!There have been more glamorous names since — most of them, to be honest — but Eddie knew it had to start with characters. And they don’t come bigger than those two.He knows there is a huge summer ahead, too, and top of the list has to be keeping Isak, with loads of Europe’s big names sniffing around.Read More on The SunSecuring a Champions League place will help, for sure, and with five teams in it from England next season, there is a great chance of Newcastle being one of them.Now those incredible Geordie fans are already daring to dream — and this time there may be no rude awakening. More