Carlo Ancelotti: "Van Basten Said: 'Give Me the Ball and Go Celebrate'"

AC Milan Manager Praises the Legendary Striker

Ancelotti Recalls Van Basten's Confidence and Skill

AC Milan manager Carlo Ancelotti has heaped praise on legendary striker Marco van Basten, recalling the Dutchman's exceptional confidence and skill on the pitch.

Ancelotti, who played alongside Van Basten at AC Milan in the late 1980s and early 1990s, described the striker's unique approach to the game.

"He used to say, 'Give me the ball and go celebrate,'" Ancelotti said. "He was so confident in his ability to score goals that he expected his teammates to start celebrating as soon as he got the ball."

Van Basten, a three-time Ballon d'Or winner, was renowned for his clinical finishing and exceptional technique. He scored 276 goals in 373 appearances for AC Milan, helping the club win multiple Serie A titles and European Cups.

Ancelotti believes that Van Basten's confidence was a key factor in his success.

"He had an incredible belief in himself," Ancelotti said. "He knew that he could score from any position, and that gave him a huge advantage over his opponents."

Van Basten's confidence also extended to his relationships with his teammates.

"He was a great leader," Ancelotti said. "He always put the team first, and he was always willing to help his teammates improve."

Ancelotti's praise for Van Basten is a testament to the legendary striker's impact on the game of football.

Van Basten's exceptional skills and unwavering confidence continue to inspire players and coaches to this day.