Ancelotti was Ferguson’s first choice for Manchester United hotseat

As Manchester United’s struggles continue under new manager David Moyes, further reports have surfaced that Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti had been Sir Alex Ferguson’s first choice to succeed him at Old Trafford.

Currently languishing 15 points behind Premier League leaders Chelsea in 6th position the club suffered further embarrassment on Tuesday night falling to a 2-0 defeat to Greek side Olympiakos in the first leg of their Champions League Last 16 tie.

While rumours had circulated after Ferguson’s retirement in May that the former AC Milan coach had been lined up to replace him Sky Sport Italia have revealed that the pair met for dinner as Ferguson attempted to convince him to takeover, but Ancelotti declined as he had already agreed in principle to join Real Madrid.

In contrast to Moyes’ start in Manchester the 54-year-old has steered Real to top of the La Liga table where they sit three points ahead of neighbours Atletico Madrid and eternal rivals Barcelona.

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