 London: Chelsea boss Carlo Ancelotti, who, as the manager of AC Milan, twice bundled Alex Ferguson's team out of the Champions League, heaped praise by saying that Ferguson's 23 years in charge at Old Trafford is a reign unheard of in Italy.
The Stamford Bridge manager also revealed his surprise when first being offered a glass of wine by Ferguson, a post-match tradition which is also not common back in Serie A.
Ferdinand injury giving United cause for concern
Ancelotti spoke highly of United's defence, despite the loss of injured Rio Ferdinand, and heaped lavish praise on Wayne Rooney saying the England star is one of the finest strikers on the planet, The Sun reports.
But there was a sting in the tale. Ancelotti had been studying United's 2-0 loss at Liverpool two weeks ago, and was refreshingly honest.
Asked whether he could build a dynasty at Chelsea like Ferguson has at Old Trafford, Ancelotti said: "I would like to but to think now about this is very difficult. I don't have the mind to think 20 years ahead."
"Maybe it would be possible to continue as long as him. If my mind doesn't go down, I can do that," he added.
United arrive at good time for Chelsea - Ancelotti
Ancelotti, who engineered three wins over Fergie during his time in charge of Milan, certainly has fond memories of his first meeting with the United boss.
"He was always very kind. The first time he offered me a glass of wine after the match. It's good to maintain a good relationship with the other coaches. We are not used to doing this in Italy - we are more nervous after matches in Italy," he said.
Victory for leaders Chelsea at the Bridge tomorrow would open a five-point advantage over United. But Ancelotti insists the title race is not a two-horse affair, and warned his team not to just rely on the goals of in-form Didier Drogba.
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