Carlo Ancelotti to Chelsea: Italian coach says Jose Mourinho is 'perfect', distances himself from role

The former Real Madrid coach spent two seasons in the Stamford Bridge dugout between 2009 and 2011

Former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti (Getty Images)

Carlo Ancelotti has downplayed the possibility of a return to Chelsea despite reports suggesting he could replace under-pressure manager Jose Mourinho.

The Italian coach, who spent two seasons in the Stamford Bridge dugout between 2009 and 2011, has been tipped for a second spell should the club’s owner Roman Abramovich decide to make a change.

However, when asked about a return by the Evening Standard, Ancelotti backed Mourinho before confirming he wants to manage again in England.

“Me at Chelsea? That’s just talk. Mourinho has difficulties, it’s true but Chelsea have confirmed Mourinho’s position,” the former Real Madrid coach said.

“Chelsea have the perfect coach to solve problems. Where do I see myself? In football you have to be ready to go anywhere. I felt fantastic abroad and would prefer to continue abroad.

“The English league has always fascinated me a lot because it was good when I was there but I’m willing to go anywhere.”

The defending champions have endured their worst-ever start to a Premier League season, losing six of their opening 11 games, while indifferent form in Europe means there are no guarantees they will reach the Champions League knock-out stages.

Mourinho’s side required a late free-kick from the in-form Willian to take three points from Wednesday night’s 2-1 victory over Dynamo Kiev.

The win gave Chelsea a two-point cushion in Group G over their visitors with two games remaining.

They will now visit Maccabi Tel Aviv in their penultimate match before welcoming their manager’s former side and group leaders Porto to Stamford Bridge.