Carlo Ancelotti names the 5 best players he’s ever coached including Cristiano Ronaldo

 

In a 2022 interview on the Italian TV show Che Tempo Fa, Carlo Ancelotti, renowned for managing clubs like AC Milan, Real Madrid, and PSG, shared his list of the five best players he’s ever coached.

Here are the names he selected.

Ronaldo Nazario

Though Ancelotti coached the Brazilian striker late in his career at AC Milan, he still named him among his top players.  

Ronaldo played just 20 matches under Ancelotti, yet his brilliance shone through with nine goals and four assists.  

“He was a phenomenon,” Ancelotti told AS. “Even injured or at 100kg, he was an absolute phenomenon.”

Cristiano Ronaldo

As expected, CR7 is among the elite players coached by Ancelotti.

During two seasons under Ancelotti, the Portuguese icon scored an impressive 112 goals in 101 matches.

“Ronaldo possesses exceptional physical and technical gifts,” Ancelotti remarked.

“He pairs these traits with unmatched professionalism and focus.

“I’ve never seen a player so dedicated, prepared, and concentrated. He’s a true role model in terms of preparation.”

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Ancelotti coached Ibrahimovic for just one season at PSG, but it was a remarkable one.  

Joining from AC Milan in 2012, the Swedish striker made an instant impact in Paris. In 46 matches under Ancelotti, he scored 35 goals and provided 18 assists, averaging a goal contribution every 77 minutes.  

“Behind his arrogant facade lies a true professional and a selfless player,” Ancelotti said of Ibrahimovic. “Zlatan was one of the few I coached who found more joy in assisting than scoring. He’s a phenomenal player and a unique personality.”

Karim Benzema

In Carlo Ancelotti’s second tenure at Real Madrid, Benzema emerged as the team’s leading figure.  

His standout performances in the 2021–22 season secured him the Ballon d’Or, and his record under Ancelotti is impressive.  

Across 187 matches with the Italian manager, the French striker netted 121 goals and delivered 54 assists, while also collecting numerous trophies together.

Vinicius Junior

Last year, Ancelotti hailed the Brazilian as “the best in the world.”  

Many believed Vinicius deserved the 2023-24 Ballon d’Or for his pivotal role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and Champions League triumphs.  

Ancelotti remarked, “We thought Vini was the Ballon d’Or winner.”  

He added, “This doesn’t diminish our respect for Rodri, who is an incredible player. I believe Rodri deserved it the previous year.”