Carlo Ancelotti Quotes

Obviously, I don't have any real speed to work with so I have to use other things. The modern game is very speed based so as soon as managers see that you haven't got that pace it can be tough.

It's not enough just being a good passer of the ball.

I know when I step into midfield I have to sharpen my feet up and be more aware of what's around me, at centre back it's more about timing, positioning and communication.

I started out real young as a tight end, but I was never getting the football. I knew when I played basketball, I loved to have control of the ball. When I played baseball, I was a pitcher. I always wanted to be the guy throwing the passes and making a difference, I guess.

Everyone knows where I play, as a defensive midfielder, more or less the same, so in the last six or seven years I play in that position and there is nothing new for me.

I like to play anywhere in the middle.

I like to control the ball and analyse the game.

I've always been a centre-half, to be honest.

I'm a versatile player, I'm a technical player, and I play with my head, but I can progress further.

Growing up I've been playing as an attacking midfielder, more central in the midfield. I wouldn't say if I'm most comfortable there but that's where I grew up playing.

I am not a magician of football.

My best position is in the middle, and if I am asked to play there, I can do it.

The team aspect of football and just playing quarterback, having the ball in your hands, having to make the plays, that was definitely something I loved.

I'm a smart QB.

The position in the middle of the field is the position I'm most comfortable with and where I can improve the most.

I am a central midfielder, and that's where I like to be.

Names that come to mind that I've learned from are Tom Brady - the way he gets the ball out and is so decisive. You can tell he is in total control out there. Another name is Aaron Rodgers, and how he's in total command. And also, Cam Newton, the way he has fun. I love that part of it.

The play-maker is the most difficult position because you have to always know where everyone is on the pitch.

A lot of people, when a guy scores a lot of goals, think, 'He's a great player', because a goal is very important, but a great player is a player who can do everything on the field. He can do assists, encourage his colleagues, give them confidence to go forward. It is someone who, when a team does not do well, becomes one of the leaders.

If I don't get the service or if I don't the ball in the box, where I want it, I start drifting into midfield. I go and look for the ball. I try to be important for the team in other areas.

For me football is more about making the right pass at the right time.

If there's one thing I can't stand, it's a quarterback who thinks playing quarterback is just about passing.

Playing in midfield is a different ball game. You have to be on the half-turn all the time, have a different picture in your head of what is behind you and in front of you. Playing at right-back is different again.

Pedro has special qualities. He adds a lot, dribbling, scoring, keeping the pitch wide. He's always ready to compete.

There are many talented midfielders but not the kind of playmaker I am.