Alexandre Pato Reflects on 'Father Figure' Ancelotti and 'Loving Milan More Than His Wife'
Former AC Milan forward Alexandre Pato has opened up about his deep affection for the Rossoneri and his relationship with former manager Carlo Ancelotti in a revealing interview. The Brazilian, now 34, spoke to CBS Sports Golazo about his time at the San Siro, describing the club with a level of devotion he reserves for his family.
In a candid moment, Pato expressed a profound, emotional connection to the Italian giants. "The club is like a family you never want to leave. I love Milan, sometimes even more than my wife," Pato said. "She can understand, I don't know about my children. Milan will be in my heart forever."
The former striker, who joined Milan as a 17-year-old from Internacional in 2007, also paid a heartfelt tribute to his former manager, Carlo Ancelotti. He described the current Real Madrid manager as more than a coach, calling him a father figure who helped a young, homesick teenager adapt to a new continent and the pressures of a top European club.
"Ancelotti gave me confidence," Pato explained. "He called his dog by my name; we had that kind of relationship. Carlo is more than a manager, he is a friend, a father. When I arrived in Milan at 17, I was just a boy. From the moment I passed through the gates of Milanello, he took me by the hand and said, 'Come, I want to introduce you to the other players.' He called them over and said, 'Guys, this is Pato.' They all introduced themselves and said they were there for me if I needed anything. For me, he is the best manager of all time."
Pato recalled the awe he felt upon his arrival at the club's legendary training ground, Milanello, and walking into a dressing room of legends. He described seeing the nameplates and photos of players like Kaká, Andrea Pirlo, Gennaro Gattuso, Paolo Maldini, and Ronaldo. "I had to try and stay calm, not to dream too much," he said of the intimidating but inspiring environment.
His time at Milan, from 2007 to 2013, was a period of great promise, though his career was later hampered by persistent injuries. Despite the setbacks, his affection for the club and the city of Milan remains undimmed. The Brazilian, who also had spells at Chelsea and Corinthians among others, is currently playing for São Paulo in his native Brazil.
Pato's emotional reflection underscores the lasting bond many players form with the clubs where they spent their formative years. His comments highlight the unique, family-like environment fostered at AC Milan under Ancelotti, a culture that left an indelible mark on the young Brazilian star. The interview offers a rare, personal glimpse into the dressing room dynamics that helped forge one of European football's most formidable sides in the mid-to-late 2000s.
