Ancelotti out of comfort zone by joining Everton, says former Everton player

Carlo Ancelotti will be stepping out of his comfort zone if 

he joins Everton, says former Blues defender Kevin 

Ratcliffe.

The Italian is expected to be confirmed as permanent 

manager before the end of the week, with Sky in Italy 

reporting his first game in charge will be against Burnley 

on Boxing Day.

Ancelotti has won 15 titles during his career, including a 

Premier League and FA Cup double with Chelsea in 

2009-10.

Ratcliffe says Ancelotti's resume is up there with the 

best, but would be surprised by his decision to take the 

job.

"If you look at his CV, there isn't a better one out there at 

this moment in time where you think 'yes, this is 

someone you want'," Ratcliffe said.

"One thing that surprises me is that he's taking himself 

out of his comfort zone. He's going into a club that he 

has got to rebuild and take them to the Champions 

League - the top six to start with but then the top four."

Despite a change in direction for Ancelotti, Ratcliffe 

believes he will already be very aware of Everton as a 

club due to his experience with Chelsea in the Premier 

League. He also jokes that the Italian may not be 

returning to Everton with the happiest of memories.

"It's a difficult job and that what makes it a surprise," 

Ratcliffe said. "He knows about Everton as he's 

managed 

in the Premier League with Chelsea. He won't have fond 

memories of Goodison."

Ancelotti - should he be appointed - will take over from 

interim boss Duncan Ferguson, who has delighted the 

Everton fans in his short tenure

Ratcliffe believes Ancelotti will experience much of the 

same. He said: "The fans are going to be made up, 

there's no doubt about it. There are not many managers 

that have a better CV in management than when they 

were playing, but he does.

"I see it as a good employment, one that will give the 

fans a boost, and I think the players as well.

"What he must do now is bring success to the football 

club, and he'll be judged on that."