Moyes reflects on early interaction with Everton boss Ancelotti
Everton share plenty of similarities with their opponents on Saturday, West Ham United, most notably the presence of former boss David Moyes as Hammers manager.
The Toffees themselves were linked with bringing the Scot back to Goodison Park amid Marco Silva’s struggles earlier this season.
However, they opted for Carlo Ancelotti instead, and Moyes ended up back for a second stint at the London Stadium.
And it turns out that the two men have a long history, dating back to Ancelotti’s time in charge of AC Milan.
“I think it [managing Everton] might be different from what he’s had but when you’ve managed PSG, Real Madrid and Napoli then I think you’re ready for anything,” he told Sky Sports.
“I was really fortunate when I was a young coach I got to go to AC Milan and watch them train and Carlo was there as the manager.
“I got to know him when he was very young and I was up and coming, going around all of the clubs to see the training facilities.
“So I’ve always thought really well of him and how could you not with his record?”
Will Ancelotti be able to outdo Moyes?
It’s interesting to hear that these two men have been aware of each other for so long, and even more fascinating that Ancelotti took a young Scottish coach under his wing.
Now, though, they are set to go head-to-head in a game that both teams will see as eminently winnable.
Ancelotti arguably has more talent at his disposal, but that’s not necessarily a guarantee of victory. Still, the visitors should come out on top in east London.
In other Everton news, the club have reportedly been regularly scouting a Scottish striking sensation.