Ancelotti focusing on Champions League success

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LONDON, Nov 29, 2009 (AFP) - Chelsea manager Carlo Ancelotti revealed Sunday that he is focusing more on the Champions League than winning the Premier League.

The elite European competition is the priority for the Blues boss, whose side could stretch their league lead over Manchester United to five points if they beat Arsenal later Sunday.

"I prefer always the Champions League," said Ancelotti, who led former club AC Milan to the European title twice, in 2003 and 2007, and the runners-up spot in 2005.

"It is the most important competition in the world. I know very well that in England it is very important to win the Premier League.

"It is different from Italy - in Italy the most important thing is the Champions League for a club.

"When I came here Mr (Roman) Abramovich didn't say to win the Champions League to me.

"He would like to see his team arrive at the end of the season in all the competitions. This is the most important thing for him.

"My aim is to do the best for this club. I would like to stay here until the owner Roman is happy with my job."

Ancelotti is in his first coaching job outside his homeland but has settled into English football quickly and successfully.

"I am Italian but here there is a very good mentality, a very good atmosphere," said Ancelotti, reiterating that he sees no reason to strengthen his squad in January despite the suspension of the club's transfer ban.

"All the players of the squad are in a good condition and if we maintain this until January it is not necessary to have new players," he told BBC Radio 5 Live's Sportsweek.

"At this moment we will sign nobody."

Ancelotti also believes England will reach the semi-finals of next year's World Cup in South Africa.

"The England team has a possibility to win," he said. "To win the World Cup is not easy but I think England can arrive in the final four teams."