Monday 4 December 2017 11:59, UK
Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed he does not want to become Italy's next head coach as he wants to stay in club management.
The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, Juventus and AC Milan manager confirmed he spoke with the Italian Football Federation about replacing Giampiero Ventura, who was fired last month after failing to secure World Cup qualification.
Ancelotti had been the choice of the federation's president Carlo Tavecchio, who has also since stood down from his role.
But Ancelotti said: "Yes the federation contacted me, I spoke to them. I told them what I am telling you now, that I am honoured by so many people wanting me to be the coach of the national side.
"However, that would be like a whole other job. Being a national coach is different to being a club coach, as I still enjoy training and working every day.
"Italian football also has some problems that need to be resolved, serious problems and I don't think I'm capable of resolving them all alone.
"As usual, the coach is blamed but that's not how it works. There is a structural problem. For example, why are we the only country in Europe where the stadiums aren't up to scratch and half empty? That isn't the fault of Ventura.
"I realise there is a conflict of interests between clubs and federations, as there is in Germany, France and England, but right now Italian football needs the Federation to impose its power over the clubs and impose new rules to improve the situation.
"For example, I think Serie A would benefit greatly by being reduced from 20 teams to 18 and I know there are clubs who are ready to vote for that."
