Carlo Ancelotti says he remains in regular contact with Jose Mourinho and is confident his fellow manager will enjoy a highly successful spell at Real Madrid.
The Brazil head coach was speaking on Thursday during a visit to Real Madrid’s headquarters, where he checked on the club’s Brazilian players before the forthcoming international break.
Ancelotti, who previously managed Real Madrid, described his relationship with Mourinho as a long-standing and close one, saying the pair continue to exchange ideas and messages.
“It is a very good relationship, and it has been for a long time,” Ancelotti told reporters. “I have an excellent relationship with him, we exchange ideas and messages. I am very happy that he is here, and that he can make the most of this great club, which is Real Madrid, a club he knows very well.”
Mourinho is an experienced figure in European football and Ancelotti said he had no doubts about the impact his compatriot could make at the Spanish club.
“Jose is a great coach and, by the way, I am sure that he will do a very good job here,” added Ancelotti.
Ancelotti also offered his assessment of the early stages of Mourinho’s latest period in charge of Real Madrid.
“I think it has been very good,” he said. “I think he faced some difficulties in the first match. Little by little, the team played better in the second match, and it was a great game against Real Sociedad.
“Now the important matches begin: the game against Real Betis, tomorrow, Friday, in La Liga, and the start of the Champions League.”
The comments came as Real Madrid prepared for a significant part of the season, with Ancelotti believing the squad is in a strong position after the arrival of several new players.
“I think the team is well prepared, with the new signings who are contributing a lot and will add a lot to the team,” said Ancelotti. “I think it will be a great season for Real Madrid.”
Ancelotti’s visit allowed him to see the Brazilian players at Real Madrid before they join up with their national team during the international break. His current role with Brazil means he remains closely linked with the club, having previously spent time in charge at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The former Real Madrid manager’s public backing provides an endorsement of Mourinho as the Portuguese coach begins to establish himself in his latest tenure at the club. Ancelotti’s comments also underline the professional relationship between two managers who have remained in close communication over a long period.
Real Madrid’s next listed fixture is against Real Betis in La Liga on Friday, before the club turns its attention to the Champions League.
