Carlo Ancelotti refuses to rule himself out of running for Arsenal job to replace Arsene Wenger

CARLO ANCELOTTI has refused to rule himself out of the running for the Arsenal job as the Gunners prepare for life after Arsene Wenger.

The Italian has been out of work since he was axed by Bayern in September after a 3-0 Champions League humbling against big-spenders Paris Saint-Germain.

PA:Press Association

The former Real Madrid and boss says he would he would welcome any approach from Arsenal.

Ancelotti has the experience and reputation needed to take on the daunting task of succeeding Wenger and moved back to London in February.

When asked whether he will be the next Arsenal boss, Ancelotti said: “I can say I would like to work again, but that depends on me. If I find the right possibility, the right project I would be delighted to continue.”

Responding to the news of Wenger’s departure, he said: “It’s a great decision, but I think it’s the decision Mr Wenger [made] with a lot of respect for the club and also I think the club have shown a lot of respect.

EPA

“That is right – Wenger did a fantastic job, and is doing a fantastic job with Arsenal because he is in the semi-final of the Europa League. Great respect and great honour to Arsene.”

While Arsenal chief Ivan Gazidis insisted on Friday that the Gunners are yet to begin discussion with possible successors to Wenger.

He said: “Arsene will always have a place at the club, it is too early to talk about what that might look like further down the road. We’re going to have a process around that. The process begins today but I want to keep that process in-house.

‘I don’t want to be making public comments about it. We haven’t had any discussions to date regarding that.’