Roma looking to chop off Real Madrid at the head

After a challenging season that saw three different coaches—De Rossi, Juric, and Ranieri—Roma found itself far from the battle for Champions League spots in Serie A. Now, the club is seeking a major shake-up for next season. Just as they did in 2021 with José Mourinho, the Giallorossi are aiming to bring in a high-profile coach to revitalise their project. Their top choice? Carlo Ancelotti.

According to AS, the Friedkins, Roma’s owners, are personally leading the effort to convince Ancelotti to take the helm. The proposal is ambitious in every sense—both financially and competitively—representing an all-in move to cement the club’s place among Europe’s elite. And there is no one better suited for the task than Carletto.

Ancelotti: a Roma legend

Roma are hoping to lure the Real Madrid manager by appealing to his deep connection with the club. As a player, Ancelotti was a key figure for Roma from 1979 to 1987, making 227 appearances, scoring 17 goals, and winning four Coppa Italia titles along with a historic Scudetto. He has never hidden his affection for the club or the city. “One day, I would love to coach them,” he has said on multiple occasions. In December, he left the door slightly open while making it clear that his priority remains Madrid:

“There’s been a lot of talk about it, but I’m happy here and focused on staying as long as possible. Ranieri is a friend and is doing a great job—I’m pleased for him. I have a great relationship with Roma and fond memories, but there’s a big difference between saying and doing. Right now, I’m not thinking about my future. I still have two years left on my contract, but contracts can be broken or extended.”

Negotiations won’t be easy for Roma. Ancelotti’s preference is to extend his tenure at Madrid for as long as possible—one of the reasons his potential move to the Brazilian national team fell through. He has also not ruled out the possibility of retiring after his time at the Bernabéu. However, Roma have already initiated contact and will persist in their pursuit, knowing their only real chance lies in Florentino Pérez deciding to part ways with Ancelotti before his contract expires.

A long season remains ahead, and as always, results will dictate the future. But Roma’s dream is clear: to bring Carlo Ancelotti back to the Stadio Olimpico.

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