Former Real Madrid forward Gareth Bale has endorsed Carlo Ancelotti as a potential permanent manager for Manchester United, calling the Italian a 'genius'. Bale played under Ancelotti during his first stint at Real Madrid between 2013 and 2015.
Speaking on the Stick to Football podcast, Bale said: 'He did well at Everton. I think he would do great. He's not just a manager, he's a coach as well, and he can do the tactical stuff as well.' Bale praised Ancelotti's ability to simplify things and get the best out of players, comparing his approach to that of interim boss Michael Carrick.
Carrick took over on an interim basis until the end of the season and has won six of his eight games in charge, with Wednesday's 2-1 loss to Newcastle being his first defeat. His performance has put him in contention for the permanent role, but United are also considering other options.
Ancelotti, 66, is currently managing Brazil and will lead them at the 2026 World Cup. However, he has previously stated that Real Madrid is the only club he would leave the Brazil job for. Despite this, his name has been linked with the United vacancy.
Bale added: 'Wherever Carlo goes, he will do an amazing job, just because he gets everybody on board. He'll simplify things. That's Carlo's genius, getting the best out of players and making it simple.'
